Residents of Afram Plains, mostly the youth, have voiced their frustration over what they perceive as a lack of development in the area, despite its status as a key agricultural hub in Ghana. Economic hardship, poor road infrastructure, unemployment, and inadequate social amenities are the dominant concerns as the December 7 elections approach.
During a campaign tour in Afram Plains North and South, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, former Communications Minister and Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), criticized the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for campaigning in the region. He described their activities as “shameful,” accusing them of diverting funds meant for critical infrastructure projects.
Dr. Omane Boamah pointed out the relocation of a satellite campus of the University of Environment and Sustainable Development from Afram Plains to Bunso in the Abuakwa South Municipality as an example of the government’s neglect.
He further claimed that funds allocated for major road and bridge construction projects in the Afram Plains, which were approved by Parliament in 2022 as part of a €350 million package, had been redirected to other areas. These projects included €150 million for the Bunso-Adawso road and approach roads for the Adawso Bridge, as well as €200 million for a bridge over the Afram River.
He specifically criticized Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, former Education Minister, and Samira Bawumia, wife of the NPP’s flagbearer, for campaigning in the area despite the perceived neglect during their administration.
“If the NPP has shame, there is no way they will step in Afram Plains to campaign,” he said, urging residents to remember the lack of development under the NPP.
Dr. Omane Boamah assured the people of Afram Plains that a future NDC government would prioritize constructing the main road to the region within two years and establish a fish processing factory to boost the local economy under a proposed 24-hour economy initiative. He called on residents to vote for NDC parliamentary candidates and John Dramani Mahama in the 2024 elections, warning against “skirt and blouse” voting for independent candidates he claimed were sponsored by the NPP.
Eastern Regional NDC Chairman Dr. Mark Oliver Kevor emphasized the NDC’s past achievements in Afram Plains, including extending electricity across the Afram River, constructing roads, building community day senior high schools, providing health facilities, and introducing a ferry service for river crossings.
Dr. Kevor urged residents to support the NDC in the upcoming elections to continue the area’s development.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
