The Coordinating Director and acting District Chief Executive (DCE) of the Adansi North District Assembly in the Ashanti Region, Thomas Kwame Okrah, fled his office on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, after aggrieved Assembly Members staged a protest against him.
The protest stemmed from allegations of disrespect, misuse of assembly resources, and interference in the selection process for the upcoming Council of State election.
The Assembly Members accused Okrah of sidelining them in key decisions and allegedly diverting the Assembly’s resources, particularly DRIP machines, for personal business. Their frustration reached a boiling point when they discovered that the list of Assembly Members selected to participate in the Council of State election had been altered without their knowledge.
Sensing the rising tension as the protestors approached his office, Okrah swiftly vacated the premises before the Fomena police intervened to restore order. The police presence prevented further escalation, but the Assembly Members remained resolute in their demand for his immediate removal.
Despite the temporary calm, the Assembly Members have escalated the matter by petitioning traditional authorities, the regional minister, and other relevant officials, urging them to facilitate Okrah’s transfer from the district. They insist that his continued stay in office will further strain relations between the Assembly and the local administration.
Speaking to Citi News, Presiding Member Dominic Odame Kusi detailed the reasons for their protest, citing Okrah’s interference in the election process as a major source of contention.
“Per the law, two members have to be selected from the Assembly Members. As the Presiding Member, I submitted the names to him for official endorsement and onward submission to the Regional Coordinating Council. However, I later discovered that the names had been changed without consultation. The Assembly Members were not happy with it, leading to the protest,” Kusi explained.
Beyond the alleged election interference, Kusi also raised concerns about the unauthorized use of the DRIP machines, a vital resource meant for developmental projects within the district.
“We also realized that the DRIP machines were being used for other work, and when we checked, names had been changed. We had to pack up the machines. We no longer want to work with him and have taken steps to ensure his transfer,” he stated.
The Assembly Members argue that Okrah’s actions have eroded trust and made it difficult for them to effectively perform their duties. According to them, his approach to governance has created an atmosphere of hostility rather than cooperation.
A senior Assembly Member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, reinforced their grievances, stating, “We cannot work with a leader who does not respect due process. Changing the names on the list without consultation is unacceptable. It undermines democracy and transparency.”
The petition submitted by the Assembly Members has been addressed to key stakeholders, including the Ashanti Regional Minister and the Regional Coordinating Council, demanding urgent action. According to Kusi, assurances have been given that the matter is being looked into, and a response will be provided soon.
“A petition has been sent to the Coordinating Council, the regional minister, and the chiefs, and we have been assured that we will hear from them soon,” Kusi confirmed.
The growing discontent among the Assembly Members reflects broader concerns about governance and accountability at the local level. Many believe that leadership positions should be occupied by individuals who prioritize transparency, inclusivity, and effective service delivery.
Some residents of Adansi North, who have been following the developments, have expressed mixed reactions to the standoff. While some support the Assembly Members’ call for Okrah’s removal, others believe that dialogue should be prioritized to resolve the conflict.
A resident of Fomena noted, “If the allegations against him are true, then the Assembly Members have every right to protest. Leaders must be accountable. However, I think they should also consider dialogue as an option.”
Another resident from Akrokerri shared a different perspective, saying, “We are tired of leadership disputes slowing down development. The focus should be on solving community problems, not power struggles.”
Meanwhile, Thomas Kwame Okrah has remained tight-lipped about the accusations leveled against him. When contacted by Citi News for his response, he declined to comment on the matter. His silence has further fueled speculation about the allegations, with many eager to see how the situation unfolds.
The controversy surrounding Okrah’s leadership raises critical questions about the balance of power within local governance structures. Assembly Members play a crucial role in decision-making, and any attempt to sideline them can lead to significant pushback, as seen in this case.
Political analysts have weighed in on the matter, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution to prevent administrative stagnation in the district. A governance expert, Dr. Kwame Asiedu, highlighted the importance of open communication in addressing such disputes.
“Local governance thrives on collaboration between the DCE and Assembly Members. If there is a breakdown in trust, it affects development. The Regional Coordinating Council must act swiftly to either mediate the issue or make a decisive intervention,” Dr. Asiedu stated.
The situation in Adansi North has once again brought to light the broader issue of accountability in local governance. It serves as a reminder that leadership positions come with a responsibility to uphold transparency and respect institutional processes.
As the petition awaits a response from the relevant authorities, all eyes are on the next steps that will be taken to address the concerns raised. Whether through reassignment, mediation, or another course of action, stakeholders will need to ensure that the resolution serves the best interests of the Assembly and the people of Adansi North.
For now, the acting DCE’s departure from his office under pressure remains a strong signal of the unrest within the Assembly, leaving many wondering what the future holds for the district’s leadership.
