Kennedy Agyapong Issues Warning to MMDAs as Government’s DRIP Project Begins

Kennedy Agyapong, Member of Parliament for Assin Central, has expressed concerns over the effective implementation of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).

The initiative aims to equip Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) with resources and machinery for road rehabilitation and maintenance.

In an interview on Oman FM on August 1, 2024, Agyapong praised the government’s intentions but voiced skepticism about the integrity and efficiency of the project.

He highlighted a worrying trend of dishonesty among officials, suggesting that without a significant shift in mindset, the initiative might not achieve its goals.

“The level of dishonesty in this country is alarming,” Agyapong stated. “While I commend President Akufo-Addo, the Vice President, and the NPP for the project, I worry about the management of the equipment now in the hands of the assemblies.”

He expressed concern that the machinery, intended to benefit the public, might instead be used for personal or political gain. Agyapong criticized the potential misuse of the over 2,240 road construction machines provided to the MMDAs, emphasizing that some officials might exploit the resources for their own purposes.

Agyapong questioned the assemblies’ ability to properly maintain and utilize the equipment, particularly regarding funding for fuel and operational costs.

“I saw the machines at Independence Square, which was impressive, but I wonder how the assemblies will manage to buy fuel and sustain their operations,” he said. “The assemblies need to demonstrate creativity and genuine commitment to the project.”

Agyapong’s remarks underscore the need for transparency and accountability in the implementation of the DRIP project, urging MMDAs to prioritize the public’s interest over personal or political motives.