Afigya Kwabre South Municipal Assembly has suspended the operation of its quarry fund, a major internal revenue source.
The Assembly is citing an illegal takeover of the revenue collection point by unknown individuals following the December 7, 2024, elections as main basis for the suspension.
The assembly’s decision has, however, sparked outrage among some concerned assembly members who argue that the move will hinder development in the municipality. They have called for an immediate reversal of the suspension.
Speaking at a press conference, the aggrieved assembly members expressed their dissatisfaction, stating that the decision was made without consulting elected representatives, which they claim is a violation of the assembly’s bylaws.
According to Evans Kusi Worae, Assembly Member for the Buoho Electoral Area, the quarry fund was established in 2020 and had been generating approximately 50,000 cedis weekly for the assembly, with each load of quarry material attracting a levy of 5 cedis.
He criticized the leadership of the assembly for halting such a crucial revenue stream without broader stakeholder engagement.
“The sudden suspension of quarry fund revenue mobilization, without involving assembly members, undermines our collective governance responsibilities. This fund is essential for the municipality’s development, and its management should involve elected representatives,” he stated.
The group is, therefore, demanding a review of the decision to ensure effective and transparent revenue mobilization. They also called for urgent engagement with stakeholders, including assembly members, to determine the best way forward.
Additionally, the concerned assembly members pointed out that the lack of a Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) has contributed to delays in addressing critical issues in the assembly. They accused the leadership of incompetence and a lack of commitment to resolving the challenges surrounding the fund.
They have urged the authorities to expedite the appointment of an MCE to ensure efficient management of resources and the smooth execution of developmental projects in the municipality.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
