Tanko Atokple Calls for Practical Local Leadership At Annual Conference of Presiding Members

The Volta Regional Member of the Council of State, Mr. Gabriel Kwamigah Tanko Atokple, has called for a renewed commitment to practical, community-driven leadership at the local government level. He made the call while serving as Guest Speaker at the 2025 Volta Regional Annual Conference of Presiding Members, held at the Volta Serene Hotel in Ho.

The conference brought together Presiding Members and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) from all 18 districts of the region under the theme “Resetting Local Leadership for National Rebuilding; Advancing Decentralisation, Participation and Sustainable Development.”

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Atokple emphasized the importance of collaborative governance and urged Presiding Members to work closely with MMDCEs while engaging local communities in decision-making. “People in our districts are looking for results—better roads, clean water, jobs, and improved local services,” he said. “We must not let them down.”

This engagement marked Mr. Atokple’s first official interaction with all Presiding Members since his election to the Council of State as the Volta Region’s representative.

In response to a formal request from the Presiding Members, Mr. Atokple made a personal donation comprising a ceremonial gown featuring a customized logo of each district assembly, a gavel, a copy of the Local Governance Act 936, and the Standing Orders. He described these as “symbols of authority and responsibility.” In a further show of support, he pledged to cover the full cost of the conference.

“I consider it a personal duty to remain committed to supporting local assemblies whenever the need arises,” he noted, promising to continue advocating for the region and ensuring its development needs are brought to national attention.

Mr. Atokple also encouraged MMDCEs to think beyond traditional revenue collection methods and explore innovative ways to boost Internally Generated Funds (IGF). “We must look beyond property rates and basic fees if we are to achieve the kind of development our people deserve,” he said.

The conference ended with a renewed sense of purpose among the participants, who expressed gratitude for Mr. Atokple’s support and practical leadership vision for the Volta Region.