Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has sympathized with communities affected by the impact of flooding in the country.
According to him, in recent days, various communities across the country have been affected by disasters caused by flooding. He revealed that several coastal communities have also been ravaged and suffered loss of properties due to tidal waves.
“The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, conveys his sympathies to all who have been affected, in various ways, by the recent devastating floods in many parts of the country. The damage, destruction and displacements are tragedies requiring urgent attention and support. As a nation, we must come together to help alleviate the suffering of those affected.”
John Dramani Mahama
Contained in a statement signed by the special aide to the former President, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, it indicated that it is “profoundly disheartening” to witness the annual recurrence of these floods, with the toll on lives and property steadily increasing.
Mr Mahama noted that the ability to prevent or minimise such disasters should be a priority for any responsible government.
“Unfortunately, the Akufo-Addo administration has repeatedly demonstrated its lack of commitment towards implementing effective measures to address this recurring menace.”
John Dramani Mahama
Government accused of lacking ideas to address flooding
Furthermore, Mr Mahama stated that the current administration has run out of ideas for ameliorating the flooding situation in the country. He explained that today, even with the shortest burst of rainfall, areas previously immune to the flooding menace experience severe destruction from the raging waters.
“We are witnessing an increase in flooding, especially in the cities, despite the huge funds injected into flood control by foreign partners such as the World Bank and from the domestic budget.”
John Dramani Mahama
Moreover, the flagbearer of the NDC highlighted that the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), “characteristic of paralyzed state institutions” under the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia administration, can also not provide relief for these flood victims because of a lack of funding.
Nonetheless, Mr Mahama emphasized that the firm belief of the NDC is that tragedies of such magnitude can be prevented through proactive measures such as implementing appropriate regulations, good waste management, and investing in the construction and management of sustainable drainage systems.
To this end, he called on the government to take immediate action to rectify the systemic failures that have contributed to these floods.
“We stand in solidarity with the flood victims and their families during this difficult time.”
John Dramani Mahama
Meanwhile, power-generating company, Bui Power Authority, has refuted claims that 1,500 residents of Buipe have been displaced as a result of flooding from the spillage of the Bui Dam.
The Authority insisted that it has “not been involved in any spillage activity”.
Contained in a statement, the Authority explained that whenever there is a need to engage in a spillage, comprehensive measures are taken to provide adequate notice and education to all communities along the downstream river channels and all stakeholders.
“These measures are implemented to ensure the safety of lives and property before, during and after a spillage.”
Bui Power Authority
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