Linda Ocloo slams inefficient MMDCEs over broken streetlights

Shika Dzidzoamenu 3 months ago

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has slammed Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) over inefficient broken streetlights.

The Minister also further gave the MMDCEs a strict two-week deadline to repair all faulty street lights in their jurisdictions.

According to the Greater Accra Regional Minister, the use of broken streetlights by MMDCEs highlights rising inefficiency in some assemblies, showing poor oversight and a lack of attention to public safety. She warned that chiefs who fail to act within the deadline will be exposed and reported.

At a media briefing in Accra on Thursday, August 28, 2025, Madam Ocloo revealed that her office, in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy, had secured 3,000 streetlights for distribution across assemblies, with each MMDA receiving 100. She urged assemblies to purchase additional lights to ensure all streets are properly illuminated.

“Let me be clear, you have two weeks to ensure that every single one of those lights is fixed. No excuses, no delays. I will personally monitor this directive. If you cannot manage these basic tasks, then you have no business occupying that office,” Madam Ocloo warned.

She also highlighted that poor lighting, sanitation problems, and illegal billboards are signs of neglect in some assemblies. “Excuses at this stage are nothing but an embarrassment to the people we serve,” she said, adding that streetlights are essential for public safety, urban order, and supporting the 24-hour economy initiative.

The Greater Accra Minister further cautioned MMDCEs against allowing personal assistants (PAs) to perform official duties. PAs should only handle administrative and scheduling tasks, not sign documents or attend meetings on behalf of chiefs. “Assemblies cannot be run by unelected individuals hiding behind your authority. This must stop immediately,” she said.

Madam Ocloo reminded MMDCEs that sensitive matters discussed in the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) must remain strictly among appointed officials, warning that breaches in confidentiality undermine accountability.