Elias Ayinbila Apasiya, the Assembly Member for the Sumbrungu Azorebisi Electoral Area, has expressed concern over the low participation of assembly members in past elections for the Council of State in the Upper East Region, describing it as discouraging.
In an interview on A1 Radio, Mr. Apasiya shared his motivations for running, noting that since 1992, the election of Council of State members has largely been one-sided, with no assembly member contesting for a national position.
“When I took office as an assembly member, I conducted some research on the election of Council of State members in the region. Historically, since 1992, these elections have been dominated by a specific group, with no assembly members contesting,” he stated.
He emphasized that this trend is discouraging and urged assembly members to take the initiative to serve at the national level. He stressed the importance of such roles in driving development in the region and beyond, adding that assembly members across the country should step up to contribute to national progress.
“That is a wake-up call for us as assembly members. We deserve better, and I believe this is an opportunity for us to rise, work hard, and contribute to the development of this country,” he urged.
Mr. Apasiya also voiced his support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s 24-hour economy policy, describing it as a promising initiative. He stated that if given the opportunity to be part of a decision-making body or advisory group, he would fully support the policy. While acknowledging that some aspects of the policy might require adjustments, he reaffirmed his commitment to contributing ideas to ensure its effective implementation.
“I think it is a very welcoming policy. If some aspects of the policy are implemented and do not work as expected, we will review them. Whatever contributions are needed to ensure they run effectively, I will be ready to provide,” he said.
Meanwhile, he assured that the Upper East Region would not be left out of the benefits of the 24-hour economy and pledged to advocate for the needs and rights of its people in the execution of the policy.
Source: A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Gifty Eyram Kudiabor|Bolgatanga
