The speakers argued that electing MMDCEs on party political lines would improve transparency and accountability in local governance.

They referenced examples from countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa, where local government officials are elected on partisan lines.

The discussion, sponsored by the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), was on the topic: "Peace building, digital accountable democracy, governance and citizens engagement: Improving transparency, efficiency, and citizen participation".

The panel members were Professor Joseph Atsu Aryee, an Independent Scholar, Dr. Maame Adwoa
Gyekye-Jandoh, Senior Lecturer and former head of the Political Science Department, University of Ghana, Prof. Kofi Quashigah, former Dean at the University of Ghana Law School, and Dr, Emmanuel Akwetey, Executive Director, IDEG.

Dr. Akwetey reiterated the position of IDEG, advocating for the election of MMDCEs on partisan lines rather than the current non-partisan system promoted by the National Democratic Congress.

He emphasized that the country had adhered to the non-partisan system for 32 years, and it is now
time to evaluate whether it had effectively met the needs of the people.
He argued that competitive elections for MMDCEs would bring in competent individuals and ensure accountability in local governance.

Prof. Aryee called for reforms in the current local governance system to promote transparency and responsibility.
While political parties are officially excluded from local governance, he pointed out that they are still involved behind the scenes.