The Atwima Mponua District Assembly finds itself in a state of anticipation, its members awaiting the crucial decision of who will be appointed as the new District Chief Executive (DCE). Amidst this period of uncertainty, a strong current of support has emerged for Sakina Oforiwaa, a prominent figure within the communication team of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). With growing calls from assembly members, this support is placing increasing pressure on authorities to consider her for the position.

The situation underscores the importance of the Atwima Mponua DCE appointment. Assembly members have voiced their reasons for favoring Madam Sakina, shedding light on the potential implications of overlooking their preferred candidate. The delayed announcement has also raised concerns about the district’s progress and the well-being of its residents. This report delves into the details of this unfolding situation, exploring the factors driving the assembly’s support and the broader consequences of the ongoing delay.

More than two-thirds of the 50 assembly members are reportedly advocating for Sakina Oforiwaa, who is among the three shortlisted candidates. The depth of this support is evidenced by a formal petition submitted to President Mahama on May 9, 2025, initially signed by 34 members, a number that has since grown to 40. The assembly members’ statement articulates their firm belief in Madam Sakina’s capabilities.

“We, the undersigned Assembly Members of the Atwima Mponua District in the Ashanti Region,” the statement reads, “respectfully write to express our collective and unwavering support for the nomination of Hon. Sakina Oforiwaa as the District Chief Executive (DCE) for our district.”

According to the assembly members, Sakina Oforiwaa possesses qualities of integrity, commitment, and leadership skills. They point to her consistent engagement with traditional authorities, youth groups, civil society organizations, and the broader community. They also say she has demonstrated a deep understanding of the needs of the people and has actively contributed to development efforts within the district. Her supporters also cite her past actions, such as the donation of 30 motorbikes to assembly members and provision of free meals to polling agents of all political parties in the last general election.

Assembly members highlight her dedication to inclusive leadership and her readiness to support democratic processes at the local level. They express confidence in her ability to foster unity, accelerate development, and ensure responsive local governance. The assembly members also reminded President Mahama of his promise to give leadership to 30% of women in his government. Appointing Madam Sakina Oforiwaa would support this promise and propel the area’s development.

An assembly member stated, “Again, the president has promised to involve women in his administration to the tune of 30%, and we expect H.E. to consider Hon. Sakina Oforiwaa in this same regard.”

However, the protracted delay in appointing a substantive Atwima Mponua DCE has significantly hindered effective governance. The delay affects the coordination of development projects and the smooth administration of district affairs. The leadership vacuum is stalling progress on key initiatives critical to the well-being and development of constituents.

“The protracted delay in appointing a substantive DCE has significantly hindered effective governance, the coordination of development projects, and the smooth administration of district affairs,” according to the petition. “This leadership vacuum is stalling progress on key initiatives critical to the well-being and development of our constituents.”

Justice Nkrumah Boateng, the Presiding Member, stated that almost all government-implemented policies, including school feeding, have come to a halt due to the absence of the DCE.

Members of the United Cadres Front of Atwima Mponua have also appealed to President Mahama to expedite the appointment of Mad Sakina Oforiwaa as DCE for the area. The group intends to protest if their preferred candidate is not appointed. Isaac Ampaabeng, the Communications Director for the group in Atwima Mponua, says Madam Oforiwaa has all that it takes to serve as DCE for the area.

The Atwima Mponua District Assembly stands united in its support for Sakina Oforiwaa as the next Atwima Mponua DCE, citing her leadership qualities, commitment to development, and alignment with President Mahama’s promise to include more women in government. The assembly members’ strong endorsement highlights the potential benefits of her appointment for the district. However, the delayed announcement of the DCE nominee is significantly impacting the region’s development and governance. As the United Cadres Front threatens protests, the President’s decision is highly anticipated and will determine the future trajectory of Atwima Mponua. Will President Mahama heed the assembly’s call and appoint Sakina Oforiwaa, or will the district face further delays and potential unrest? The coming weeks will be decisive.