Apam, June 22, GNA - Cabinet has approved a strategic plan prepared by the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to strengthen metropolitan, municipal and district assemblies and their sub-structures.

The plan is to cede some of the powers of Central Government to the assemblies and the sub-structures to make democracy at the grassroots more functional.

Mr Abraham Jumah Odoom, Deputy Minister of the Ministry announced these at an emergency meeting of the Gomoa District Assembly at Apam. The meeting was convened to decide on the fate of Ms Joyce Aidoo who was nominated by the President for the post of District Chief Executive for the Assembly.

The Assembly endorsed her nomination by 59 votes in favour and 13 against.

Mr Odoom announced plans to split the Gomoa District Assembly, which is currently the largest in the Central Region into two to make administration more effective.

"This will also put to rest Gomoa East and West dichotomy, which is hampering the development of the area" he stated.

The Deputy Minister advised the DCE elect to respect the views of the staff and members of the Assembly.

Nana Ato Arthur, Deputy Central Regional Minister, commended the Assembly for the peaceful manner in which the election was conducted. He advised the DCE-elect to ensure unity of the Assembly and urged her not to make any attempt to know those who voted against her. In her acceptance speech, Ms Aidoo thanked the Assembly and the President for the confidence reposed in her and assured them that she would not let them down.

"I bear no one any grudge and promise to give equal treatment to all".

She appealed to the members to put her back on track whenever she went astray.

You will do me more harm if you fail to point out my mistake to me," Ms Aidoo stated.

Mr Bartino Stephen, the District Electoral Officer supervised the election.