By Clement | Parliamentary Desk
ACCRA, Ghana – The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, is receiving commendation from sections of the public and political observers for what they describe as his hands-on leadership style and active engagement with local government institutions, Parliament and key stakeholders.
Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, who is also the Member of Parliament for Banda in the Bono Region, heads the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs following government’s restructuring of ministries under President John Dramani Mahama’s Resetting Agenda, an initiative aimed at improving efficiency, reducing administrative costs and strengthening coordination across government.
Since assuming office, the Minister has undertaken working visits to several metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies across the country to assess ongoing programmes, monitor service delivery and engage local authorities on their responsibilities.
One of his recent visits to the Ayawaso North Municipal Assembly attracted public attention when he urged the Municipal Chief Executive and management of the Assembly to place the needs of residents at the centre of local governance. The engagement was welcomed by residents and some local stakeholders, who viewed it as a demonstration of government’s commitment to accountability and improved service delivery.
In the area of chieftaincy affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim has continued to engage traditional authorities on issues affecting their welfare and their role in national development. His ministry has also overseen efforts to improve the welfare of chiefs, including the enhancement of their allowances, a move that has been welcomed by many traditional leaders.
The Minister has equally maintained close collaboration with religious organisations, promoting dialogue and cooperation among Christian, Muslim and Traditional Religious leaders as part of efforts to strengthen peaceful coexistence and national unity.
Within Parliament, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim is regarded by many parliamentary observers as one of the Ministers who regularly attend sittings to answer parliamentary questions and participate in debates on government business. His active participation has been linked to his previous role as Deputy Chief Whip, where he served in the leadership of the House and gained extensive experience in parliamentary procedure and legislative business.
Media practitioners who cover Parliament have also described the Minister as accessible and responsive, noting his willingness to engage journalists and provide information on government programmes and policies. They say his approach reflects an appreciation of the media’s role in promoting transparency and public accountability.
Beyond his public office, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim is an Elder of the Church of Pentecost, a role that colleagues say reflects his commitment to faith and community service.
As government continues to pursue its decentralisation and governance agenda, observers say the Minister’s frequent field engagements, accessibility and emphasis on accountability have contributed to growing public attention to his stewardship of the ministry.
Source: parliamentnews360.com
