By D.I. Laary
Koforidua, July 21, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has received a warm reception from traditional leaders in Eastern Region, as they applauded his electoral victory and a successful six months in office and pressed for accelerated development and environmental protection.
Addressing the gathering at the Jackson Park in Koforidua, President Mahama thanked the residents for their role in maintaining peace during the Election 2024 and reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling infrastructure and educational challenges.
“By the grace of God, victory came to the side of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). We are here to say thank you,” Mr Mahama said.
He reaffirmed plans to invest in roads, hospitals, and schools under the “Big Push” initiative, citing a $1.5 billion annual infrastructure deficit.
President Mahama also identified projects earmarked for the region, including the Osino–Anyinam bypass, the Afram River bridge, and expanded water supply services to cover over one million people.
Welcoming the President, Nene Sakite II, the Konor of Manya Krobo Traditional Area and President of the Eastern Regional House of Chiefs, expressed appreciation for the Mr Mahama’s visit, which marked a significant milestone.
“Following your decisive victory in the Election 2024, the House extended its heartfelt congratulations. Though our requested audience at the Jubilee House is still pending, we are honored you visited us first,” Nene Sakite said.
He commended Mahama for the strong momentum at which he had started his new term but emphasised the need to build on this initial force.
He said, “Good is not good enough where better is possible,” adding that “Your leadership must now bring sustainable development, hope, and prosperity to all Ghanaians”.
Nene Sakite called attention to deteriorating infrastructure, citing poor road conditions, particularly in Krobo land, and expressed concern about illegal mining, known locally as galamsey.
Nene Sakite said he had coined the phrase; “Thou shalt not destroy the environment,” as an “11th commandment, saying our sacred groves, rivers, and cultural heritage are under threat”.
He pledged the support of traditional leaders in safeguarding natural resources and urged the government to continue to intensify anti-galamsey efforts.
He addressed the issue of the merger of the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs with Local Government, noting that it could impact budget allocation and visibility of traditional institutions.
“We trust that this realignment will be implemented with transparency and mutual respect,” adding that the chieftaincy institution remained a critical pillar of national identity and governance.
He appealed for logistical and financial support for regional and national Houses of Chiefs, recalling Mr Mahama’s prior donation for the rehabilitation of the Eastern Regional House’s offices, a project that stalled and resumed briefly under the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation.
“Perhaps it is divinely ordained that the one who initiated it must be the one to see it through,” he said.
Nana Kwaku Boateng III, the Omanhene of the New Juaben Traditional Area, also applauded President Mahama for the current economic management and infrastructure continuity.
He said the stabilisation of the exchange rate had brought confidence back into the economy and provided relief to many businesses, while the continuation of key projects showed leadership beyond partisanship.
The Omanhene praised the “No-stress fee policy for first-year university students” of the NDC government and requested for actions to be taken on local concerns, including congestion at the old market and the completion of the Eastern Regional Hospital under the Agenda 111 initiative.
He stressed the urgent need for a spacious modern market facility, as well as the repair of dilapidated roads in Koforidua and neighboring areas.
Nana Boateng urged the government to release its White Paper on the return of Koforidua lands to traditional authorities, in line with the 1992 Constitution and the 2020 Lands Act, saying “We respectfully seek the rightful restoration of these lands”.
Both chiefs reaffirmed their commitment to national unity and development, pledging continued cooperation with President Mahama’s government.
The also assure the President of their unwavering commitment to peace, stability, and shared values under his leadership.
President Mahama acknowledged their concerns and reiterated that Eastern Region would receive its fair share of development resources.
GNA
Edited by Christabel Addo