A group of aggrieved youth in the Garu Constituency of the Upper East Region has staged a protest against the alleged politicization of the Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP).
The group accused the Member of Parliament and the District Chief Executive (DCE) of sidelining deserving caterers in the allocation of contracts.
The protest, led by the Concerned NDC Youth of Garu, was marked by the delivery of a press statement alleging that the MP and DCE had handpicked loyalists and cronies, bypassing party executives and other qualified applicants.
The group also alleged that key decisions regarding contract allocations were made at a private meeting in Accra, further fueling concerns of nepotism and favoritism.
According to the protestors, the contracts were not awarded based on merit or party structure, but rather through what they described as a “mafia-style” arrangement, undermining the integrity of the programme and causing discontent among local stakeholders.
In response to the allegations, the District Chief Executive for Garu, Hon. Abugba John Abare, denied any wrongdoing.
Speaking to Adom News’ Upper East Regional Correspondent, Halidu Dasmani, the DCE described the claims as “baseless” and “politically motivated.”
He maintained that the selection process was fair and transparent and that all deserving caterers were given equal opportunity.
The DCE attributed the allegations to internal political tensions and attempts by some individuals to tarnish his image and derail government interventions in the district.
He reiterated his commitment to the success of the Ghana School Feeding Programme and appealed for unity among party members.
He also called on constituency executives to set aside their differences and collaborate to ensure development in Garu, stating that the school feeding initiative is a government flagship programme aimed at improving both education and nutrition and should not be politicized.