The National Democratic Congress in Volta Region has expressed its disappointment over the comment made by President Akuffo Addo during his visit amidst the devastating flood resulting from the Akosombo dam spillage by the Volta River Authority.
In a statement released on Monday night, October 16 2023 and signed by the Regional Secretary, James Gunu, the party described the President’s comment as ‘insensitive’.
According to Mr. Gunu, President Akufo-Addo’s words, which were supposed to provide solace and support to those affected by the recent devastating floods, have instead compounded their emotional distress.
“The President addressed the nation on Monday, October 16, offering words of empathy and condolences to the victims of the flood, which had left many families displaced and suffering from severe emotional trauma. In a heartbreaking turn of events, President Nana Addo’s speech at Mepe this evening has had a profound and deeply distressing impact on the flood victims in North Tongu”.
James Gunu
Mr Gunu further argued that the content and the delivery of the speech by President Akufo-Addo have resulted in an unexpected and severe backlash, leaving victims further distressed.
He noted that many flood victims had hoped for reassurance, aid, and a clear plan to help them rebuild their lives but unfortunately, the President’s speech seemed out of touch with the magnitude of their suffering and the urgent need for action.
According to the National Democratic Congress in Volta Region, the President’s speech failed to resonate with victims and communities that have been severely affected by the flood resulting from the Akosombo dam spillage.
“Lack of Specific Assistance: The President’s speech lacked specific details about the support and resources that would be made available to the flood victims. Insensitive Language: His choice of words and tone appeared insensitive to the emotional turmoil faced by the victims, further exacerbating their distress. Failure to Address Immediate Concerns: Many flood victims expected immediate solutions for housing, healthcare, and essential services. These expectations have not been addressed”.
James Gunu
Mr. Gunu also indicated that local leaders, humanitarian organizations, and residents in the region have all expressed their concern over the President’s speech which according to him was not only ‘empty’ but ‘lacked direction’.
Volta NDC Calls For Help For Flood Victims
Moreover, the National Democratic Congress in the Volta Region called for a swift and effective response to assist the flood victims in this time of need.
According to Mr. Gunu, the devastating effect of the flood resulting from the spillage of the Akosombo dam to residents and communities in the region demands immediate and urgent provision of assistance to the people.
The National Democratic Congress in the Volta Region thus urged President Nana Akuffo-Addo and his administration to address the concerns of the flood victims with the urgency it deserves.
“The reality on the ground is that the people need help, and they need it now! The victims were looking for firm assurances and practical solutions which must be borne out of thoughtful analysis, planning and executing strategies but instead, they felt neglected and misunderstood.
“As the humanitarian situation worsens and the victims’ emotional stress deepens, what we expect is for the government to take practical steps to ameliorate the suffering of the victims of this disaster. The emotional well-being of these individuals should be the highest priority, and actions should speak louder than words”.
James Gunu
President Akuffo-Addo on Monday, October 16 2023 toured the districts severely affected by the flooding and assured the affected communities of his administration’s commitment to addressing the situation.
