By Mildred Siabi-Mensah
Takoradi, Nov. 11, GNA – Obrempong Hima Dekyi XIV, the Paramount Chief of Upper Dixcove, says honouring individuals who have significantly contributed to the development of the Western Region has been a long-standing tradition.
“The statue of His Excellency, President Akufo-Addo, at the Effia-Nkwanta roundabout was, therefore, not out of the ordinary,“ he said.
Obrempong Dekyi was responding to criticisms that had greeted the erection of the statue of the president since it was unveiled recently.
Contrary to some reports in the media space, the unveiling was not performed by Akufo-Addo but by Nana Kwesi Agyeman IX, the Paramount Chief of Lower Dixcove, with support from other esteemed chiefs, he said.
Obrempong Dekyi said Akufo-Addo’s Government had been instrumental in spearheading various monumental projects aimed at enhancing the infrastructure and public services of the region.
Key projects include the rehabilitation of the Effia-Nkwanta Regional Hospital, construction of a three-tier interchange in Takoradi, the resurfacing of the Tarkwa-Takoradi road, and the redevelopment of the Takoradi Market, which are in advanced stages of completion, he said.
Others are the mini-harbour in Enzlinbo, Agenda 111 and a fishing harbour in Axim.
It was essential to recognise the transformative impact President Akufo-Addo and his administration have had on the Western Region over the past seven years, Obrempong Dekyi said, hence the chiefs of the Region had consistently supported local development and saw it fitting to commission a statue in honour of the President.
He said some streets have been named after prominent individuals, including Animens, Bus-Kwofie, Paa Grant, and Master Cudjoe of the GSTS to mention but a few.
Obrempong Dekyi urged Ghanaians to “remain measured in their assessments as we strive together to uphold the democratic values and sustain the current peace in the country.”
GNA