NDC, NPP divided over Mahama’s Upper East development agenda
President Mahama outlined a number of initiatives his government intends to undertake in the region, including improvements in road infrastructure, enhanced peace and security measures, establishment of an airport, and the revamping of a tomato processing factory among other projects.
A member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Communications Team for the Chiana-Paga Constituency, Angelina Asurayaga, has expressed confidence in President John Dramani Mahama’s commitment to delivering on his development promises for the Upper East Region.
Her remarks follow a courtesy call on the President by members of the Upper East Regional House of Chiefs, led by its President, Pe Ditundini Adiali Ayagtam III, at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, February 10.
During the meeting, President Mahama outlined a number of initiatives his government intends to undertake in the region, including improvements in road infrastructure, enhanced peace and security measures, establishment of an airport, and the revamping of a tomato processing factory among other projects.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Wednesday, February 11, Asurayaga said the NDC has a proven track record of fulfilling its campaign promises.
“When we say we will do something, we mean it. If you look at the ongoing work on the Chiana-Tumu road within just one year, it demonstrates commitment. The NPP, in their eight years, have little to show. They make promises but fail to fulfil them.” She stated.
She further cited the establishment of a passport office in the region and ongoing plans to construct an airport as clear evidence of the government’s dedication to the development of the Upper East Region.
“All that the President has said is achievable. We promise and deliver, and we will certainly deliver on these commitments as well.” She added.
However, Benjamin Ayivere Wedam, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team for the same constituency, who also appeared on the programme, rejected the assertion that the NDC has prioritised the region’s development.
According to him, although the NDC consistently enjoys significant electoral support in the region, that support has not translated into proportional development.
“The NDC has dominated the region in terms of votes, yet they have not prioritised it. It suggests they do not respect us. The very roads they criticised us for, what did they do about them during their previous administrations?” He questioned.
Ayivere also challenged the government’s claims of economic improvement, arguing that many Ghanaians are yet to feel the impact.
“You say the economy is doing well, yet about 38,000 nurses have not been posted. Fuel prices are said to be down, but transport fares have increased. Farmers cannot exchange a bag of maize for a bag of fertiliser as they used to, and you say the economy is good?” He asked.
The discussion reflects the continuing political debate over development and economic performance in the Upper East Region, as both major parties seek to justify their records and win public confidence.
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