Tema Traditional Council demands withdrawal of Chief Executive nominations for Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman municipal assemblies, citing non-indigenous appointees and calling for local leadership.

Council Cites Need for Local Leadership in Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman

Accra, Ghana – April 2025: The Tema Traditional Council has called on the government to withdraw its recently nominated Chief Executives for Tema Metropolis, Tema West, and Ashaiman, arguing that none of the appointees is indigenous to the area. At a press briefing in Tema, the Council’s spokesperson, Nii Armah Somponu, criticised the administration for disregarding earlier appeals to install native leaders in these key local government roles.

Call for Indigene Leadership

Nii Armah Somponu emphasised that meaningful community development depends on leaders who understand local customs, needs, and challenges. “We expected an indigene of Tema to be appointed. Choosing outsiders undermines our people’s rights and hinders effective governance,” he stated.

Government Response Pending

The government announced the three nominations in late March. The Council has given authorities one week to reconsider and withdraw the nominations, threatening to escalate the matter through customary and legal channels if their demand is not met.