The official residence of the Ashanti Regional Minister, which previously accommodated past ministers, and the Presidential Lodge, which hosted both current and former presidents, have fallen into severe disrepair. The facilities were abandoned for eight years during the tenure of the immediate past administration.
Neglect has led to the looting of essential items such as air conditioners, window frames, and furniture, leaving the premises in a dilapidated state.
The www.kumasimail.com gained access to the site during a tour conducted by the Ashanti Regional executives of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) to inspect state of the government facilities.
The facilities, once symbols of governmental presence and efficiency in the region, have been left unattended since the New Patriotic Party (NPP) assumed office eight years ago.
The RCC previously served as the official residence of the Ashanti Regional Minister during the tenure of Samuel Sarpong of the NDC.
However, his successor, Mr. Simon Osei-Mensah of the NPP, reportedly refused to occupy the premises, leading to their neglect.
Currently, the premises are overrun by weeds and debris. Vital infrastructure, including air conditioners and furniture, has been stolen or removed.
The Presidential Lodge, which previously accommodated presidents during their visits to the region, is also in a deplorable state.
Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NDC, Augustus Andrews, expressed his shock upon inspecting the site.
“What we saw this afternoon is very sad,” he lamented. “When we were in power, this was the regional minister’s bungalow, and it was well-maintained. But look at the state of it now—it’s disgraceful.”
The NDC’s Regional Secretary, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, also described the situation as unfortunate, pledging that the party would launch investigations into the issue.
“We need to determine whether the facilities were properly managed and identify who was responsible for their upkeep,” he stated.
Dr. Amoakohene raised concerns about the diligence of civil servants tasked with managing government properties.
“It is troubling to think that someone employed to oversee these facilities allowed this level of neglect. It raises serious questions about accountability within the system,” he noted.
He also criticized the waste of public resources, suggesting that the immediate past regional minister may have lived in a rented apartment at taxpayers’ expense while these facilities remained unused and deteriorating.
“This is a misuse of resources, especially when government properties capable of housing officials have been left to decay,” he added.
Dr. Amoakohene assured the public that efforts would be made to address the issue promptly. He emphasized the importance of restoring the facilities and holding those responsible for the neglect accountable.
“This is not just about one building; it’s about respecting public resources and ensuring they serve their intended purpose,” he said.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
