The North East Regional Minister, Ibrahim Tiah, has delivered a blunt message to politicians and government appointees from northern Ghana, insisting that they have “absolutely no excuse” to fail their people when it comes to delivering development.
Speaking at an orientation session for Municipal and District Chief Executives and Coordinating Directors from the Upper East and North East Regions in Bolgatanga on the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) project, Mr. Tiah argued that with the current political and institutional influence northern Ghana enjoys, there is no justification for underperformance.
“We have the Speaker of Parliament coming from the North. We have the Majority Leader coming from the North. We have the President coming from the North. If we fail, then we have caused our own failure. We have no excuse whatsoever. So each of you, when you get back, talk to your MPs. Upper East, you have all your MPs as NDC. In my region, we have 50-50. But still, we will involve them because whatever NPP did and left, we are coming to continue. We are not abandoning any project,” he declared.
The Minister expressed frustration at inefficiencies within district assemblies, particularly the delays in processing Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) and the underutilization of project funds. “When you have money sitting in your account and you are not spending, excuse me with my words, it shows inefficiency,” he said. “Why should an IPC land on your desk for more than one week? No, there’s no reason.”
He challenged district chief executives to move beyond excuses and demonstrate results, warning that President John Dramani Mahama expects visible projects under the SOCO project and other funds before the year ends. “When His Excellency comes to your district and there is nothing to show, nobody should tell you that this is the beginning of your exit,” he cautioned.
Mr. Tiah also stressed that assemblies must prioritize efficiency and inclusivity in implementing social interventions, such as livelihood grants for women. He urged MDCEs to blend political sensitivities with community needs to avoid unrest.
A1Radioonline.com|101.1Mhz|Joshua Asaah|Bolgatanga
