In a dramatic display of frustration, youth members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Pusiga constituency of Ghana’s Upper East Region have locked the Pusiga District Assembly. They have vowed to shut down the New Patriotic Party (NPP) office if they do not receive documentation proving that a former police station, now claimed by the NPP, rightfully belongs to their party.
Leadership of the Protest
The protest is led by Abdul Rauf Anantiim, president of the Young Democrats, and Iddrisu Ayongo, a member of the group. Anantiim has accused the District Chief Executive (DCE), Mr. Zubeiru Abdulai of engaging in corrupt practices known as “loot and share,” and of neglecting assembly activities for the past three months. The youth’s actions are aimed at preventing further mismanagement within the assembly.
Context of the Protest
The protest follows Dr. Mahmudu Bawumia’s announcement on December 8, 2024, in which he accepted defeat to former President John Dramani Mahama, despite the Electoral Commission of Ghana yet to officially declare the results. This context has intensified the youth’s demands for accountability from local officials.
Specific Allegations
The protesting youth have raised several serious allegations against the DCE:
Mismanagement of Funds Anantiim claims that over 60,000 Ghana cedis allocated for the construction of the Pusiga market have not led to any visible progress, with no blocks laid in the past eight years.
DRIP Equipment Spending: Since the arrival of DRIP equipment in October 2024, the youth report no work has been completed, despite over 80,000 cedis being spent. They question the DCE’s plans for these funds as December approaches.
Unaccounted Expenses;The DCE is also accused of spending over 120,000 cedis on unspecified animal purchases, raising further concerns about financial transparency.
Anantiim stated, “We, the youth of Pusiga, are here to ensure that all looting in this assembly comes to a halt. The DCE has ignored assembly activities for too long, and we don’t want him to have the opportunity to cover up his actions.”
He emphasized their demand for accountability, saying, “The former DCE left over 600,000 Ghana cedis for the construction of the market. Yet, for the past eight years, no work has been done. We want the DCE to clarify where the funds have gone and to provide proof of the animals he claims to have purchased.”
The protest in Pusiga underscores the frustrations of local youth regarding governance and accountability. As they demand transparency from elected officials, the NDC youth remain committed to ensuring that public resources are used effectively for the betterment of their community. This unfolding situation highlights the importance of civic engagement in the democratic process, especially in light of recent electoral changes in the country.
Source: mywordfmonline.com/Gaspard A .Ayuureneeya