Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu and Chairman of the Assurances Committee of Parliament has expressed deep concern over the government’s response to the spillage, particularly the perceived neglect of the affected communities in his constituency.
Hon. Ablakwa criticized the Inter-Ministerial Committee established by the government to address the consequences of the spillage, noting that it has fallen short of expectations.
“We don’t know when the Committee is going to meet us, whether it is still in force, or when they are going to have their first meeting with us,” Hon. Ablakwa lamented during the hearing. His remarks underscored a growing sense of frustration among the affected populations who feel neglected by both local and national authorities.
A public hearing on the Akosombo Dam spillage, held by the Ad-Hoc Committee set up by Parliament, took place at the Justice D.F. Annan Auditorium. The hearing has sparked significant debate, particularly concerning the handling of the disaster’s aftermath and the lack of engagement with affected communities.
The spillage of the Akosombo Dam led to severe flooding in the surrounding areas, displacing thousands of residents, destroying property, and disrupting livelihoods.
According to Hon. Ablakwa, more than twelve thousand people in the North Tongu constituency have lost their livelihoods due to the disaster, and there has been no compensation from the government. This situation has prompted him to consider seeking legal redress on behalf of his constituents.
The North Tongu legislator’s criticism extended to the broader governmental response, which he described as disappointing. The 13-member Inter-Ministerial Committee, tasked with managing the spillage’s aftermath, has reportedly failed to engage with the affected communities or deliver tangible support.
Hon. Ablakwa’s testimony highlighted a significant gap between the government’s promises and the reality on the ground.
Hon. Ablakwa further emphasized the lack of clear communication and transparency from the Committee, stating, “We are very disappointed in the Committee. They have not worked to our expectations.” His comments reflect a broader concern among stakeholders that the government’s efforts are not adequately addressing the needs of those most impacted by the spillage.
Committee Chairman Praises Witnesses’ Honesty
In contrast, the Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee, Hon. Suleman Adamu Sanid, MP for Ahafo Ano North Constituency, commended the witnesses.
“The witnesses have been very honest, very fair with the facts on the ground, and I think we are in a position to submit a very good report to Parliament.”
Hon. Suleman Adamu Sanid, MP for Ahafo Ano North Constituency
Hon. Sanid’s remarks suggested that the Committee is making progress in its investigation and is committed to delivering a comprehensive and fair report. He expressed confidence that the report would be well-received by all stakeholders and would serve as a basis for addressing the issues raised during the hearing.
During the hearing, Hon. Sanid also made several preliminary recommendations, notably directing the District Assemblies to cover the water and electricity bills of those displaced by the spillage and currently residing in safe havens.
Hon. Sanid emphasized the urgency of this action, stating, “These are initial recommendations that we have made, and we think that this shouldn’t wait for our report but should be acted upon as quickly as possible.”
This directive aims to provide immediate relief to the affected populations while the Committee continues its work. The hearing underscored the importance of timely and effective responses to disasters, as well as the need for ongoing support for those impacted.
The public hearing will continue, with the Volta River Authority (VRA) and two additional District Assemblies scheduled to appear before the Committee. These sessions are expected to provide further insights into the causes and consequences of the spillage, as well as the effectiveness of the response efforts.
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