The Chairperson of Parliament’s Select Committee on Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Maame Queenstar Pokuah Sawyerr, has issued a stern warning to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) across the country to desist from misappropriating funds meant for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) under the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF).
Speaking during a committee sitting on Thursday, October 9, 2025, Hon. Sawyerr reminded the assemblies that under the DACF Act, three percent (3%) of each district’s allocation is reserved for supporting persons with disabilities through livelihood empowerment, education, healthcare, and skills development.
She noted that recent audit reports from 2023 and 2024 revealed alarming irregularities in the management of PWD funds, including diversions and outright misuse by some assemblies.
“Actions will be taken against those assemblies who dipped their hands into the PWD funds,” the Agona East legislator warned, emphasizing that the Committee will ensure accountability and proper utilization of resources meant for vulnerable citizens.
The caution came when the Committee met to review the annual statements of MMDCEs in the middle belt, including those from the Northern, North East, and some Eastern Region assemblies who could not appear before Parliament earlier.
Despite her strong words, Hon. Sawyerr commended several MMDCEs for their exemplary leadership and prudent management of resources in line with the Committee’s mandate and the vision of the President. The commendation went to:
- Hon. Musah Abdul-Rashid, DCE for Nanumba South
- Hon. Mary Tagba, DCE for Tatale Sanguli
- Alhaji Abu Takoro, MCE for Tamale Metro
- Hon. Imoro Yakubu Kakpagu, DCE for Kumbungu
- Hon. Alhassan Fuseini, MCE for Savelugu
- Hon. George L. Tanei, DCE for Zabzugu
- Hon. Samuel Owusu Brako, DCE for Achiase (Eastern Region)
- Hon. Joseph Ali Lachir, DCE for Bunkpurugu Nakpanduri (North East Region)
The Committee is expected to continue its public hearings today, Friday, October 10, 2025, engaging assemblies from the Savannah, Upper West, and Upper East Regions as part of its nationwide oversight to ensure transparency and accountability in local governance.
Report By: Robicon Mornahson
