The Member of Parliament for Sefwi Akontombra in the Western North Region, Hon. Pious Nkuah, has accused his predecessor, former MP Hon. Alex Djornobuah Tetteh, of introducing illegal mining activities into the constituency under the guise of what he described as ‘deep mining’.
Mr Nkuah, who made the allegations while responding to comments attributed to the former MP, questioned Mr Tetteh’s record on development and environmental protection, insisting that the people of Akontombra deserved responsible leadership and truthful public discourse.
Touching on road infrastructure, the incumbent MP said the road project from Pakyi Junction to Kodjour, which was not undertaken by his predecessor, was now receiving attention through collaborative efforts involving himself and Enchi under Big Aidoo Construction. He disclosed that the project was approximately 40 per cent complete, with asphalt works underway, while work in Akontombra was about 30 per cent complete.
On water infrastructure, Mr Nkuah also highlighted the ongoing rehabilitation of the Akontombra water system, describing it as part of efforts to improve access to potable water for residents and address their developmental needs.
The MP further questioned the former legislator’s commitment to the constituency, alleging that Mr Tetteh had relocated members of his family elsewhere amid the pollution of water bodies allegedly caused by him and his accomplices. He also made reference to the Akontombra-Dadieso road project, alleging that significant sums of money were taken during the period associated with former NPP Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, without any work being done. He, however, added that contractors were now actively working on the said road and demanded accountability over the matter.
On environmental protection, Mr Nkuah acknowledged the challenges associated with combating illegal mining but pledged to intensify efforts to reduce pollution of rivers and other water bodies in the constituency. He maintained that although the task had not been easy, his administration was determined to pursue measures to protect the environment.
He urged Mr Tetteh to exercise restraint in his public commentary and make decorous statements, stressing that political disagreements should not undermine the peace and stability of the constituency.
“We want peace to prevail in Akontombra, so there is no need for his coming back,” Mr Nkuah reportedly stated, describing the former MP as a stranger and a passerby whose return to the political landscape should not be taken for granted. He added that residents were now more discerning and would not allow themselves to be deceived.
The incumbent MP also highlighted his efforts at creating employment opportunities for constituents, adding that several young people from the constituency were currently undergoing training in areas such as the Military, Immigration Service and other security agencies. He questioned why employment opportunities for constituents should necessarily be announced on radio before they could be considered genuine interventions.
Mr Nkuah concluded by insisting that there was a clear distinction between his approach to leadership and that of his predecessor, dismissing what he described as Mr Tetteh’s tendency to boast about his achievements. He maintained that his priority remained development, job creation, environmental protection and the preservation of peace in the Akontombra Constituency.
