Barring unforeseen circumstances, the District Assembly and Unit Committee Elections will come off as scheduled on September 12, this year.
The mounting of the platforms for the D-day by and large, has been successful in most district assemblies, with minor problems associated with such exercise.
The functions of the District Assemblies include the formulation and execution of plans, programmes and strategies for the effective mobilisation of the resources necessary for the overall development of the District.
It is also to levy and collect taxes, rates, duties and fees.
For this uphill task, The Standard feels that Ghanaians should put partisan considerations aside and choose right and knowledgeable people to represent them.
We believe that enough awareness had been created by the Electoral Commission and National Commission for Civic Education on the elections and we urge the electorate to turn out in their numbers to vote.
The various platforms mounted for the aspirants to enable the people to make informed choices have been worthwhile.
This election offers the people the chance to let their voices be heard loud and clear on issues affecting their communities.
The turn out of women to contest the election has been very encouraging.
In our opinion, since women have been advocating for equal participation with men in national affairs, as many women as possible should be encouraged to get into the assemblies provided they are capable.
In voting however, they should be no coercion; everyone should be allowed to vote according to his or her conscience.
As we approach the final stages of the campaigns, aspirants should base their messages mainly on how they plan to develop their areas to improve the lifestyles of their people.
Campaigns of lies, insults, and unfounded allegations should be avoided.
The introduction of the District Level Elections more than two decades ago, was to decentralise political administration in Ghana and ensure a wider popular participation.
We urge all aspirants not to make promises they cannot fulfil. They should remember that no single Assembly member can develop his or her area without the active involvement of the people.
Aspirants are reminded that their participation in the assembly and Unit Committee elections is not for financial gain but rather to uplift the standard of living of the people.
The job for an assemblyman or woman is very challenging and calls for dedication, sacrifice and selflessness.
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