The Rent Control Department has announced major reforms aimed at transforming the department into a modern, transparent and accountable institution.
The Acting Rent Commissioner, Mr. Opoku Frederick, disclosed this at the maiden edition of the Rent Control Department Public Accountability Series held in Accra.
He said the theme for the event is “Accounting to the People, Building Public Confidence through Digital Transformation, Transparency and Effective Enforcement of Ghana’s Rent Laws.”
Mr. Frederick said the department can no longer continue to rely on manual processes, fragmented records and limited presence while the rental housing sector keeps expanding due to rapid urbanization and increasing rent pressures.
He said the department is pursuing a comprehensive programme of institutional modernization, administrative restructuring, digital transformation, public education and strengthened enforcement of Ghana’s rent laws.
“Our vision is very clear: to build a modern, digitally enabled, transparent, accessible, and effective rent control department that serves the public fairly, protects lawful tenancy rights and promotes compliance with Ghana’s rent laws,” he said.
The Acting Commissioner said the Public Accountability Series will be held every quarter to enable the department to explain its actions, report its progress and remain answerable to the people.
He also expressed deep concern over a recent incident where a tenant was reportedly forcibly evicted by a landlady, with her belongings thrown outside.
“We stand in solidarity with the affected tenant and strongly condemn any unlawful act of self-help eviction that undermines human dignity and due process,” he said.
Mr. Frederick reminded all landlords that recovery of possession must follow due process of law, including Section 17 of Act 220, and cautioned against such unlawful evictions.
He thanked the media for honoring the invitation at short notice and said the department will continue to vigorously pursue reforms to protect the interests of both landlords and tenants.
