Tensions are rising in the Birim Central Municipality as chiefs and youth groups have issued a stern warning to the Member of Parliament (MP) for Akim Oda, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, to cease what they describe as a deliberate campaign to sabotage the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Solomon Kusi Brako.
The groups allege that the MP’s actions are undermining peace and development in the municipality. According to them, his conduct since the MCE’s appointment has been marked by attempts to discredit and frustrate the young administrator’s efforts.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, the Birim Central Youth Association, led by its Convener, Kingsley Adofo, accused the MP of spreading falsehoods about the MCE, including unfounded claims that he was involved in illegal mining (galamsey).
“Solomon Kusi Brako is working hard to develop Oda. The MP should focus on his duties instead of moving from one radio station to another spreading lies. We have explained the issues the Assembly has explained them yet he continues to mislead the public. If he is afraid of the MCE’s popularity, he should wait for 2028 and contest fairly,” Mr. Adofo said.
The youth group described the MCE as one of the most effective in the current administration, citing his achievements in addressing illegal mining, improving sanitation including clearing a decades-old refuse dump and resolving long-standing market allocation challenges.
Their reaction follows recent allegations that the MCE had taken a GH₵15,000 bribe from illegal miners.
However, both the Assembly and the MCE have denied the claim, clarifying that the amount was a legitimate business operating permit fee paid into the Assembly’s account, with receipts issued to miners under the Akwatia GCD tributary mining system.
Meanwhile, traditional authorities in the Akyem Kotoku Traditional Area have also condemned the MP’s alleged behavior.
The Krontihene, Obrempong Gyamfi Saforo Kyere, speaking on behalf of the council, said the MP had in the past made similar unsubstantiated allegations against some chiefs, accusing them of engaging in illegal mining.
Obrempong Gyamfi warned that such divisive actions would not be tolerated and could cost the MP his seat in future elections if he continued to disrespect traditional authorities and undermine local governance.
Some residents further suggested that political rivalry within the New Patriotic Party (NPP) was at the heart of the conflict, claiming that Oda MPs often clash with MCEs whenever the NPP is in power.
“Oda is an NPP stronghold, but anytime the party is in government, our own MPs become uncomfortable and try to sabotage MCEs instead of supporting development,” one youth member remarked.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
