By Michael Foli Jackidy
Ho (V/R), Jan. 23, GNA – A total of 29 out of 40 aspirants for the District Chief Executive (DCE) position in the North Tongu District are being vetted in Ho in the Volta Region.
Mr. Egypt Kudoto, Vice Chairman of the NDC in the Volta Region and Chairman of the MMDCEs vetting committee, has disclosed to the GNA on Thursday.
He said after the second day of vetting, Mr Kudoto explained that the North Tongu aspirants were allocated an entire day due to their large numbers.
“Initially, we had 40 aspirants from North Tongu who applied for the DCE position. However, on the scheduled day for their vetting, only 29 appeared before the committee, leaving 11 absent,” he said.
While expressing disappointment over the absentees, Mr. Kudoto noted that the reduced number, however, eased the vetting process for the committee.
“Although it is unfortunate that all 40 aspirants did not turn up, it was manageable for the committee. We are tasked with shortlisting three candidates, and even vetting the 29 who appeared was a daunting task. Many of them are familiar faces, as they were actively involved in the party’s last campaign trail, which makes the selection process even more challenging,” he stated.
Mr. Kudoto highlighted the high level of academic and professional qualifications among the aspirants, stating that 90% of those vetted were overqualified for the role.
“We had PhD holders, lawyers, engineers, chartered accountants, and other highly qualified professionals competing for the DCE position. Some of these candidates have credentials that would qualify them for CEO roles in major state institutions,” he revealed.
However, he noted that qualifications alone were not the sole criteria for selection. The committee also considered geopolitical dynamics within the districts.
“For instance, in a district with two strong traditional areas, if the Member of Parliament comes from one area, it is often strategic to select the DCE from the other. This ensures balance and inclusivity in governance,” he explained.
Mr. Kudoto emphasized that this geopolitical consideration was part of the guidelines provided by the party headquarters to ensure fair representation in the various Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
The vetting process in the Volta Region, which began with aspirants from other districts, has so far seen a high turnout and impressive credentials from aspirants. The committee is expected to conclude the exercise soon and submit its recommendations.
GNA