On 28 August 2026, President John Dramani Mahama sent a letter from the Office of the President declaring the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) the highest political and administrative authority within the Tema Metropolis. The letter directs TDC Ghana Limited to recognise and comply with the Assembly’s statutory powers over development control, spatial planning, permits, municipal services, rates and other regulatory matters.
How the Story Unfolded
The directive follows a long‑standing dispute between the TMA and TDC over construction activities at Community One, Sites 3 and 8. The Assembly had issued a stop‑work order and demolished portions of structures, citing that the development had begun without the required permits. TDC, which traces its mandate to a 1952 establishment, argued that it should not be treated as a private developer.
Presidential Guidance
The President cautioned the TMA to exercise its powers fairly and transparently, ensuring that enforcement does not unduly hinder legitimate development or TDC’s commercial operations. He also warned that neither institution should encroach on functions legally assigned to the other.
Next Steps
To settle the dispute, the President has instructed Ministers Kenneth Gilbert Adjei and Ahmed Ibrahim to craft an administrative and operational framework within 14 days. This framework will outline roles, permitting, revenue obligations, information sharing, dispute resolution and regular engagement between the TMA and TDC. Both parties are also ordered to cease any actions, public statements or media engagement that could inflame the conflict.
