I will not hesitate to fire corrupt DCEs - Mills

Accra, June 8, GNA - President John Evans Atta on Monday used the platform for the orientation of newly appointed District chief Executives (DCEs) to warn that he would not hesitate to fire any of them who misconduct him or her self in office.

This was the first time the president officially met them after their appointments and confirmation.

The GNA in an interview with some participants to find out whether they regarded the statement as a threat, got some positive reactions from the DCEs.

Ms. Emelia Arthur, District Chief Executive for Shama, said "the times of pomposity and arrogance in office are over," adding that the President's call was to remind DCEs to approach their work with humility.

"We are to work for the good of the people, bring development to them and alleviate poverty," she said. She said it was a wake up call for all DECs to be accountable to the people they pledged to serve.

Mr. George Agyemang, DCE for Duah Kwaebibrem in the Eastern Region, said the President's statement was not discouraging but a reminder to serve the local people whose expectation for National Democratic Congress (NDC) government was very high.

He said the local people were yearning for development and that there was no way they, as representatives of the President, should disappoint them.

Ms. Sabian Appiah Kubi, DCE for Asin North Central, said the call by the President was part of the "Better Ghana" agenda and added "it is a reminder to stay focused and be accountable to the people in order to justify the confidence reposed in us by the President and the people." She said as the leaders of the local people they had no option than to listen to the people in all matters affecting the district. She said she would never fail the people who put her in office. Mr. Bernard Frank Amable, DCE for Ketu South, said his doors were open to all the people under him at anytime to put any question on the development matters of the district.

He said he needed the collaboration of all the people in the district and promised to constantly consult the assembly members, the chiefs, experts and even the ordinary people in every step he would take for purposes of accountability.

"My door is open to all constructive criticisms, advice and suggestions that can bring progress and development to the local people," he said. 08 June 09