Solomon Gbenga, Chairman of Narrative Changers, has called on the newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Upper East Region to prioritize practical and impactful development projects for their constituents and the region at large.
Speaking in an interview on A1 Radio, Mr. Gbenga acknowledged the party’s clean sweep in the parliamentary elections and the presidential victory for the National Democratic Congress (NDC). However, he urged constituents to manage their expectations. “This time around, it will be even more difficult to get three cabinet ministers out of the fifteen MPs because other regions have also provided strong support to their MPs. This is a national trend,” he said.
While recognizing the political influence gained with the election of all fifteen MPs, Mr. Gbenga pointed out that past experiences suggest this may not directly translate into tangible benefits for the region. He referenced the period under the late President John Evans Atta Mills in 2008, when six cabinet members hailed from the Upper East Region but failed to deliver significant outcomes for the region. “If we had six cabinet members in 2008 and couldn’t use that to benefit the people of the Upper East Region, what can we realistically expect from these fifteen? Let’s lower our expectations,” he advised.
Mr. Gbenga outlined several key development goals that the MPs should prioritize over the next four years. He emphasized the importance of delivering basic infrastructure projects to drive progress. “Combining these fifteen MPs, we may not achieve much, but there are some foundational projects that could define their success,” he said.
Among his proposed initiatives are the construction of a standard sports stadium and the establishment of an airport in the Upper East Region, both of which he believes would catalyze economic growth and development. “By the end of four years, we should have a standard sports stadium and an airport in the Upper East Region,” he stressed.
He also highlighted the need to complete the passport office and expand the youth resource center in Navrongo. Additionally, he raised concerns about the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam project, calling for accountability for funds already allocated. “Some people took money for the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam without delivering any work. They should be brought back to start something,” he urged.
Mr. Gbenga concluded by emphasizing that focusing on these critical projects would empower communities and strengthen trust between MPs and their constituents. “If they can deliver on these five initiatives, they will empower people in their constituencies and build goodwill for future elections,” he stated.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
