Politics Holds Ashanti Region Back, Says AYA General Secretary

The General Secretary of the Ashanti Youth Association (AYA), Emmanuel Tweneboah Kodua has said that  politics is the primary obstacle to development in the Ashanti Region.

In an interview with Agudey on Nkwantannanso on June 12, he expressed his concerns, stating, “Politics takes precedence in everything here. While journalists in Accra were demanding fixes for roads, journalists in the Ashanti Region were praising the government, despite existing issues that need attention.”

The AYA representative further emphasized that the people of the Ashanti Region contribute to their own challenges as there are ministers of state hailing from the region who do not actively contribute to its development.

“Statistics reveal that the Eastern Region has the highest number of tarred roads. We should inquire about their approach and implementation,” he added.

Although he identifies as a staunch member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), he highlighted that he often raises concerns and holds the party accountable. This has led to some media houses refusing to invite him for interviews.

Recalling a previous incident, he mentioned, “I was once invited for a radio interview and patiently waited, only to be informed by the producer that some party members requested I be prevented from speaking due to my approach in addressing issues.”

He also responded to the comments made by the Regional Minister, Hon Simon Osei Mensah, who stated that there was no design available for the Suame Interchange project during the sod-cutting ceremony.

Mr Kodua questioned the feasibility of commissioning a project without a design.

“How can we begin a project without a proper design? Even individuals undertaking construction projects always start with a design,” he expressed.

Despite his concerns, he remains hopeful that the Suame Interchange project will be initiated and successfully completed.