The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for the Shai-Osudoku Constituency, has expressed deep concern over the rampant theft of public infrastructure in the region, revealing that 20 percent of installed streetlights have been stolen in her constituency.
Speaking to the media during her recent tour to oversee the confirmation of the President’s nominees for Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), Madam Ocloo noted:
“We are losing about 20 percent of the fixed streetlights to theft. This is unacceptable and a major setback to the government’s effort to improve infrastructure in our communities.”
The Minister made these remarks during the confirmation process of the President’s nominee for District Chief Executive (DCE) for Shai-Osudoku, Fred Ignatius Dodoe.
Despite her appeal for support, the nominee failed to obtain the required number of votes, securing 17 ‘Yes’ votes against 15 ‘No’ votes.
She emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among Assembly Members and appointees, urging them to support the President’s nominees to accelerate development.
“Confirming the President’s nominee is not just about politics; it’s about empowering local leadership to deliver real progress.”
The Minister also raised concerns about alleged vote manipulation, claiming that some individuals vying for appointments are offering financial incentives to Assembly Members in an effort to block the President’s nominees.
“We have received information that some shortlisted individuals are paying what they call ‘losing bonuses’ to influence Assembly Members,” she revealed.
“If Shai-Osudoku refuses to confirm the nominee, we may have to bring him back repeatedly or appoint someone from outside the district.”
As part of her regional tour, Madam Ocloo visited the Shai-Osudoku, Adentan, and La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assemblies. She was accompanied by officials from the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council.
While the Shai-Osudoku nomination process ended in a stalemate, the Adentan and La Nkwantanang-Madina confirmations were successful.
Ella Esinam Nongo was confirmed as the Municipal Chief Executive for Adentan, and Fuseini Ibrahim Faila was also confirmed and sworn in as the MCE for La Nkwantanang-Madina.
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