By Mimi ChiadikaoI
Mr Henry Mbachu, Member representing Awka south 1 state constituency,in Anambra State House of Assembly has asked the governor of Anambra state, Prof. Charles Soludo, to withdraw an executive Bill he sent on Tuesday in Awka to state legislators for passage.
Mbachu expressed concerns about the bill, which requires newly “Selected” Local Government chairmen to contribute a portion of their funds to a consolidated account,
He noted the potential negative impacts of the directive which he stated that if passed would restrict local governments from managing their allocations from the Federal government.
The state lawmaker said that the bill could compromise the governor’s integrity and have adverse effects on the democratic environment of the State.
Mbachu called on President,Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu to monitor governors who are undermining progress in local government elections by compelling elected chairmen to divert funds to the state government.
He noted that his concerns are rooted in the landmark Supreme Court judgment granting financial autonomy to local governments.
Mbachu described the executive bill if allowed passage may counter the progress, and potentially rubbish the achievement of compulsory local government elections as directed by the supreme Court.
The state legislator ‘s public disagreement and refusal to support the bill demonstrate his commitment to core democratic values.
“It’s imperative for Gov. Soludo to rethink on his undemocratic bill and listen to a sincere plea and see the potential consequences of this bill on democracy and future governance in Anambra State and withdraw the unpopular bill.
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