Bongo District Elects New Presiding Member, Confirms DCE

Source: Anaba Moses Azubire, Upper East Regional Correspondent

In a decisive 24-hour political development, the Bongo District Assembly has successfully concluded the election of its Presiding Member and the confirmation of the District Chief Executive (DCE), marking a significant step toward stability and development in the district.

The election of the Presiding Member took place at the District Court and featured a contest between Hon. Ataba Philemon and Hon. Asampana Mba. The first round of voting ended in a deadlock, with Hon. Mba receiving 35 votes and Hon. Philemon garnering 19—both falling short of the two-thirds majority required by the constitution.

The stalemate caused considerable tension among assembly members and political supporters. However, following an intervention by the Overlord of the Bongo Traditional Area, Hon. Ataba Philemon chose to withdraw from the race in the interest of peace and unity.

This allowed Hon. Asampana Mba to run unopposed. In a follow-up vote, he received 94% “Yes” votes, reflecting overwhelming support from the assembly. He was later sworn into office by the District Magistrate Court Judge.

In a parallel event, Hon. Joe Akasake Abaa was confirmed for another term as the District Chief Executive of Bongo District. Out of 56 votes cast, Hon. Abaa received 52 “Yes” votes and 3 “No” votes—representing a 95% approval rate.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Abaa expressed gratitude for the continued confidence placed in him and pledged to collaborate with both assembly members and the Regional Minister to accelerate development efforts in the district.

The smooth and peaceful resolution of both the Presiding Member election and DCE confirmation is hailed as a testament to the district’s commitment to democratic values and collaborative leadership.