How local government reforms have altered central-local relations in Ghana: reflections on the Fourth Republic

Using qualitative inquiry, this study examines how local government reforms have changed central-local relations under Ghana under the Fourth Republic. The study also explores the effects of the changes on the operations of... [ view full abstract ]

Using qualitative inquiry, this study examines how local government reforms have changed central-local relations under Ghana under the Fourth Republic. The study also explores the effects of the changes on the operations of local government bodies to execute their mandates. We used purposive sampling to select respondents for the study and elite interview method was used to collect data from institutions including the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, the Local Government Service Secretariat, Institute of Local Government Studies and District Assemblies.
The major findings are that local government reforms in Ghana have altered central-local relations in the areas of human resources management, finance and revenue mobilization, development planning and decision making. The effects of local government reforms on the operations of local government entities are mixed. While the reforms have improved financial support from central government to local government entities, central government still interferes in planning and decision making in local affairs, especially in the areas of education and health. The study recommends that local government entities should be given full powers to plan and implement their developmental agendas. It also recommends that local government authorities such as the District Chief Executive should be elected to improve accountability.

Key words: local government, decentralization, reform, Ghana.