GOVERNOR MUTFWANG SWEARS IN NEWLY ELECTED COUNCIL CHAIRMEN, PLEDGES CONDUCIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR GRASSROOTS DEVELOPMENT
11th October, 2024
The Langfield Event Centre, Jos, was filled to capacity on Thursday evening as a jubilant crowd of People's Democratic Party (PDP) supporters gathered to witness the swearing-in of 15 newly elected Local Government Chairmen by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
During the ceremony, Governor Mutfwang reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to local government autonomy, describing it as a critical driver for grassroots development. He noted that the recently concluded local government elections were conducted in a manner that upheld democratic principles, setting a new standard for fairness and transparency.
“The elections we conducted were free, fair, and credible,” Mutfwang stated. “This is a marked departure from the flawed processes of the past. I am proud to say that we have honored our pledge to provide a level playing field for all political parties to participate. The voice of the people has truly prevailed.”
Governor Mutfwang underscored the importance of fostering a robust partnership between state and local governments, aimed at accelerating grassroots development. He commended the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) for its integrity in delivering a transparent and reliable election that earned the trust of the electorate.
“I commend PLASIEC for upholding the integrity of the process,” the Governor continued. “Their work has restored confidence in our electoral system. This election mirrors the legacy established in 2014 when I, alongside our Deputy Governor, was elected in an equally transparent contest. I can confidently declare that this election was neither manipulated nor compromised.”
In his remarks, the Governor called on the newly sworn-in chairmen to embrace the responsibility that comes with their positions, urging them to prioritize the needs of the people and deliver on the mandate given to them. He emphasized his administration’s dedication to a strong and functional local government system, which he believes is vital for sustainable development.
“We are committed to strengthening local government structures across the state. Autonomy for local governments does not equate to isolation; rather, it empowers these councils to perform more effectively,” Mutfwang explained. “As a former beneficiary of a functional system, I am resolute in my pledge to create the enabling environment that will allow you to serve our people optimally. We will introduce a peer review mechanism to ensure that each chairman delivers their best performance.”
The Governor reassured the people of Plateau State that local governments will receive the support they need to operate independently but in synergy with the state government, ensuring that governance is brought closer to the people.
He also expressed confidence in the PDP’s dominance in Plateau politics, stating that the party remains a true representation of the people's hopes and aspirations.
In a show of solidarity, Hon. Hamisu Anani, the newly sworn-in Chairman of Wase Local Government Area, spoke on behalf of his colleagues, thanking the Governor for his leadership and for empowering PLASIEC to conduct a transparent election. He pledged that the newly inaugurated council chairmen would work tirelessly to drive development across Plateau State.
In an additional highlight of the event, Governor Mutfwang administered the oath of office to two more local government chairmen, whose elections had faced delays due to late submissions of results. With their swearing-in, the total number of inaugurated council chairmen rose to 17, all from the PDP, while other political parties secured a substantial number of councillorship seats across the state.
The ceremony concluded on a high note, with the Governor reiterating his administration’s commitment to comprehensive grassroots development and a renewed focus on governance that is accountable, transparent, and people-centered.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
More photos below.
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