Accomplished Mahama Ayariga Assumes Office as Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs Minister

Accomplished Ghanaian politician and statesman Mahama Ayariga has officially assumed office as Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, pledging to strengthen decentralisation, promote accountable local governance and deepen collaboration with traditional and religious institutions.

Ayariga was sworn into office by President John Dramani Mahama at the Jubilee House on Saturday, August 29, 2026, marking a new chapter in his public service career.

Following his swearing-in, the Minister expressed deep gratitude to President Mahama for the confidence reposed in him and for the opportunity to serve the country in a portfolio with direct implications for grassroots development and national cohesion.

He also thanked Parliament for approving his nomination and extended appreciation to Ghanaians, colleagues, friends and well-wishers for their prayers and encouragement throughout the process.

Ayariga acknowledged the significant expectations that accompany his new assignment, particularly the crucial role of local government in bringing development closer to citizens.

He said he was mindful of the need to strengthen decentralisation and ensure that Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) remain responsive and accountable to the communities they serve.

“I am mindful of the important role local government plays in bringing development closer to our people, strengthening decentralisation, and ensuring that our Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies are responsive and accountable to the communities they serve,” he stated.

Beyond local governance, Ayariga’s new portfolio places him at the centre of government engagement with Ghana’s traditional authorities and religious institutions.

He recognised the important contribution of chiefs and religious leaders to national peace, cohesion and development, and pledged to work closely with them and other stakeholders to advance the national interest.

The Minister said he would approach the assignment with humility and a strong sense of duty, emphasising listening, consultation and collaboration as key to delivering practical solutions to the challenges confronting communities.

“My commitment is to listen, engage, and work with all stakeholders to deliver practical solutions that improve the lives of our people,” he said.

Ayariga further pledged to be guided by integrity, fairness, accountability and service to the national interest as he takes on the new responsibility.

His appointment comes at a time when Ghana’s decentralisation agenda continues to demand stronger local institutions capable of responding effectively to the needs of citizens.

With responsibility for local government, chieftaincy and religious affairs, the Minister is expected to engage a broad range of stakeholders, including MMDAs, traditional authorities, religious organisations and local communities.

For Ayariga, the task is significant, but he remains optimistic that collective effort can produce meaningful results.

“The responsibility is great,” he acknowledged, expressing confidence that with God’s guidance, the support of President Mahama and the collective efforts of stakeholders, Ghana can make meaningful progress. His assumption of office therefore signals a renewed commitment to grassroots governance, stakeholder engagement and the strengthening of institutions that connect national policy with the everyday needs of communities across Ghana.