The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has criticized the government’s District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP), stating it was poorly planned and executed.
Mahama made these comments during his campaign tour at the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, where he argued that the initiative was hastily implemented to score political points.
The DRIP initiative aims to empower local authorities with resources and equipment to rehabilitate and maintain roads within their areas, aligning with the government’s decentralization commitment.
However, Mahama claimed that the program’s implementation was flawed, citing a video showing the improper transportation of equipment to various localities.
He emphasized that the government should have provided payloaders for proper equipment transportation and addressed the lack of skilled workers to operate the machines.
President Akufo-Addo launched the DRIP on July 31, commissioning essential equipment at Black Star Square to enhance the country’s road networks and decentralize development.
The President highlighted the importance of road infrastructure in economic growth and social development, connecting communities, facilitating trade, and improving access to education and healthcare.
Despite progress, many district roads remain in poor condition, impeding economic activities and development, prompting the need for the DRIP initiative.
The program includes a comprehensive fleet of 2,240 pieces of equipment to improve road infrastructure nationwide, but Mahama’s criticism raises concerns about its effective implementation.
Mahama’s comments suggest that the government’s haste in implementing the DRIP may compromise its intended benefits, emphasizing the need for careful planning and execution in development initiatives.
