In a powerful display of civic activism, the Koforidua Development Advocates (KDA) have received official authorization from local law enforcement to stage a significant demonstration in Koforidua, the Eastern regional capital, this coming Saturday, August 19, 2023.
The rallying call for action has been fueled by the deteriorating state of roads in the suburbs of New Juaben North and South municipalities, prompting concerned citizens to take a stand.
In a collaborative effort between the organizers and the police, the final routes for the demonstration were confirmed on Friday, ensuring a well-coordinated and secure event.
The demonstration is poised to reverberate across communities grappling with dilapidated roads, such as Apenkwa, Agbogri, Nyamekrom, Monrovia, KTU area, Asokore, Oyoko, Akwaadum, Mpaem, Simpoa Miensa, Zongo, and neighboring areas within the New Juaben North and South municipalities.
Evident banners have been proudly unfurled in these communities, illuminating the urgent need for infrastructural rejuvenation. The KDA, in a determined show of unity, has resolved to make their voices heard and advocate for essential amenities that their neighborhoods sorely lack.
This isn’t the first time the KDA has sought to catalyze change. Almost two months ago, the group temporarily suspended a similar demonstration following mediation by the New Juaben Traditional Council. This conciliatory move allowed city authorities a grace period to fulfill promises made to repair the roads within a stipulated timeframe.
The Member of Parliament for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi, stepped forward to provide insight into the situation, revealing that contracts for 80% of Koforidua’s roads had been awarded.
However, delays attributed to ongoing negotiations involving an IMF deal have hindered the implementation of these repairs. He reassured the public that despite the delays, these pressing road issues are on the authorities’ radar.
While some of Koforidua’s major town roads have received attention, the absence of payment to contractors has led to a stark contrast in the condition of roads between the town center and outlying suburban areas.
The onset of the rainy season has exacerbated the situation, causing havoc in the form of impassable, mud-ridden roads in these peripheral neighborhoods.
Agbodo Komla Godsway, the convener of the demonstration, has released a statement rallying the community to unite under the banner of a non-partisan campaign.
The campaign aims to propel change and demand better conditions for residents. “It’s time to demand better roads, street lights, and essential amenities for our neighborhoods. We are organizing a peaceful demonstration to press the authorities and make our voices heard,” the statement declares.
The issues at hand extend beyond mere inconvenience. The KDA underscores that the hazardous state of roads and the lack of adequate street lighting pose grave threats to commuters, pedestrians, and motorists alike.
The condition of the roads, marked by potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces, significantly heightens the risk of accidents and injuries.
Furthermore, the KDA points out that the subpar road network hampers access to vital services like healthcare, education, and markets. The economic growth and development of the municipality are stifled as a result.
The absence of proper street lighting compounds the problem by creating dim and unsafe spaces that criminals exploit, thereby jeopardizing community safety.
The environmental impact is also a concern, as unpaved roads contribute to respiratory problems due to the dust and debris they generate, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
The organizers urge all community members to come together, transcending divides, in their collective quest for improved living conditions.
The forthcoming peaceful demonstration signifies their unwavering commitment to holding authorities accountable for the community’s development.
The date for the demonstration has been marked as a pivotal moment, a juncture where unity can usher in a safer, healthier, and more prosperous environment for all. This cause, the KDA underscores, is a unifying endeavor for the greater good of the community.
Discussion about this post