Report by Akpeleas Flora- 29/02/2024
The Volta Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sorkpa Kafui Agbleze, strongly condemned President Nana Addo-Danquah Akufo Addo’s failure to address the plight of flood disaster victims in the 2024 State of the Nation’s Address (SONA). Expressing profound disappointment and concern, Agbleze highlighted the dire situation faced by communities affected by recent floods exacerbated by dam spillages and tidal waves.
In a press release issued on Thursday, February 29, 2024, Agbleze emphasized the significant omission from President Akufo Addo’s SONA regarding relief efforts for flood disaster victims. He stated, “The recent flood disaster, exacerbated by spillages from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams, has wreaked havoc on communities within the Volta and other regions, leaving countless families displaced and livelihoods destroyed.”
Agbleze underscored the anticipation of relief measures promised to affected communities, including the disbursement of funds allocated in the 2024 Budget and support from the World Bank’s Crisis Response Window. However, he lamented, “The absence of any mention of relief efforts or plans to mitigate the effects of the disaster in the 31-page SONA is a glaring oversight that reflects a deliberate lack of empathy and commitment to the well-being of these countrymen.” After being met with disappointment and frustration. According to him, the President’s address, delivered to Parliament on February 26, 2024, failed to acknowledge the suffering of those impacted by the recent floods.
Furthermore, Agbleze criticized the mention of a non-existent project, the Keta Fish Landing Site, in the President’s address, stating, “What is equally displeasing is the President’s mention of a non-existent project like the Keta Fish Landing Site on page 22 of his presentation. We want to once again put on record that there is no such project in Keta or any other place in the Volta Region.” , highlighting the need for accurate information and due diligence in governmental initiatives. The inclusion of misinformation only served to deepen the distrust and frustration felt by communities already grappling with the devastating impact of the floods.
The Volta NDC called upon President Akufo Addo to urgently address the situation and prioritize the needs of flood disaster victims. Agbleze demanded, “Immediate action to provide relief aid, rehabilitate affected communities, and implement sustainable measures to prevent future occurrences” , to alleviate the suffering and prevent future occurrences.
In emphasizing the importance of leadership and accountability, Agbleze reiterated, “In fulfilling the constitutional obligation to address the nation, it is imperative that the President demonstrates leadership by acknowledging and responding to the pressing concerns of all citizens, irrespective of tribe, location or voting pattern.”
The press release served as a stark reminder of the government’s obligation to its citizens and the need for swift and decisive action in times of crisis. As the Volta Region continues to grapple with the aftermath of devastating floods, the NDC’s criticism highlights the urgency for governmental action and support for affected communities. The call for accountability and empathy resonates as citizens await a response from the President regarding the pressing concerns raised by the Volta NDC
