The chiefs also praised the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, calling him one of the most inspiring ministers appointed by President John Dramani Mahama.

According to the traditional leaders, Mr. Ibrahim’s dedication to chieftaincy affairs and local governance has been exemplary, noting that his leadership has strengthened engagement between government and traditional authorities.

They added that even if the chieftaincy portfolio were to be reassigned or restructured under a different ministry, they would still appeal to the President to retain Mr. Ibrahim as the minister responsible for the sector.

The commendations were delivered by Togbe Agama Amata IV, Paramount Chief of the Fievie Traditional Area, during a vote of thanks at a familiarisation visit by the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to the Volta Regional House of Chiefs.

The visit, led by Ahmed Ibrahim, was attended by Volta Regional Minister James Gunu, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Governs Kwame Agbodza, all 18 Municipal and District Chief Executives in the Volta Region, as well as other dignitaries and members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Speaking on behalf of the House, Togbe Agama Amata IV expressed appreciation for the collaborative approach adopted by the ministers in engaging traditional authorities, stressing that such interactions promote mutual respect and enhance the role of chiefs in national development.

The chiefs reaffirmed their support for the government’s development agenda and called for sustained cooperation between traditional institutions and state authorities to promote peace, unity, and sustainable development in the Volta Region.

The appeal was made during a courtesy call on the Executive Secretary of the National Small Arms Commission (NSAC), Dr. Adams Bonaa. Mr. Gunu said the programme has contributed significantly to reducing the circulation of illicit firearms and encouraging the voluntary surrender of weapons.

According to him, extending the amnesty would allow more individuals to hand over illegal arms without fear of prosecution, while deepening public confidence in the initiative.

Speaking on behalf of Togbe Afede XIV, the Vice President of the Asogli State and Chief of Heve, Togbe Anikpi III, supported the call and reaffirmed the commitment of traditional authorities to the success of the programme.

He noted that an extension would enable chiefs and opinion leaders to intensify community sensitisation on the dangers posed by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

Responding to the appeal, Dr. Adams Bonaa welcomed the initiative and commended the Volta Regional Minister and the Asogli State for their leadership and commitment to national peace and security.

He assured them that the request would be forwarded to the Minister for the Interior for consideration as part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the Gun Amnesty Programme nationwide.

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsnight, he said the regional security council has engaged both factions involved in the dispute, urging them to give peace a chance.

“The regional security council met with both factions this morning, and we caution them and edge them to give peace a chance. What happened at the genesis of this clash is something that should not have happened at all,” Mr Gunu stated.

The minister explained that the crisis stems from a long-standing dispute over the Volta Regional Imamship. He noted that his predecessor had been addressing the issue and that he himself wrote to the National Chief Imam on August 9, 2022, and again upon assuming office on April 29, 2025, seeking intervention to clarify the legitimate Regional Imam.

On November 1, 2025, the National Chief Imam visited Ho, met with traditional authorities and members of the Muslim community, and officially declared Sheikh Muniru Ali Mohammed as the Volta Regional Imam.

Mr Gunu emphasised that this declaration aimed to resolve the protracted dispute.

The December 26 attack reportedly involved about five masked assailants who opened fire inside the mosque, creating panic among worshippers. Authorities are investigating the incident, which has been linked to the ongoing Imamship disagreement.

Mr Gunu appealed to all parties and their supporters to respect the National Chief Imam’s decision and pursue peace: “This is a legacy issue, and it is time for unity, cooperation, and law-abiding conduct in service to the Muslim community.”

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At the Volta Economic Forum 2025, held at the Reddington Beach Resort in Whuti, Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu delivered a powerful call to investors, development partners, and traditional authorities, urging them to “see the Volta Region not merely as a location, but as a long-term growth destination.”

Reimagining Volta’s Role in Ghana’s Economic Transformation

Held under the theme “Harnessing the Volta Corridor Potentials for the 24-Hour Economy Take-Off,” the forum brought together policymakers, private investors, and local authorities to chart a coordinated strategy for regional development.

Minister Gunu described the Volta Corridor as one of Ghana’s most strategically endowed growth zones — a natural intersection of trade, agriculture, tourism, logistics, and innovation that connects the coastal, middle, and northern belts while opening a gateway to Togo and the wider ECOWAS market.

“From the Aflao border and the Keta Lagoon Basin through Ho to the Oti interface,” he said, “the Volta Corridor represents a living network where markets connect, people create value, and resources generate competitiveness.”

A Region Ready for the 24-Hour Economy Era

Aligned with President John Dramani Mahama’s 24-Hour Economy Policy, the Volta Region is positioning its local economy to drive productivity, expand employment, and attract sustainable private investment.

The Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) has identified over 50 bankable projects across priority sectors — including agro-processing, aquaculture, renewable energy, eco-tourism, ICT, and logistics.

According to Minister Gunu, these projects have undergone due diligence to ensure they are verifiable, viable, and locally supported.

To streamline investor participation, the VRCC has established a One-Stop Investor Facilitation Desk, supported by district-level investment teams “ready to walk every investor through the process — from concept to commissioning.”

Building the ‘Corridor of Productivity’

The vision, which the Minister described as a “Corridor of Productivity,” seeks to transform Volta into a region where industries operate seamlessly day and night — creating jobs for the youth and empowering communities through value addition.

“Our people are ready. Our resources are abundant. Our leadership is united in purpose,” Gunu declared. “Let us form partnerships that are mutually beneficial and socially responsible — and let us take bold steps together to make the Volta Corridor the epicentre of Ghana’s inclusive growth.”

Turning Commitments into Tangible Impact

Organised in collaboration with the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) and the 24-Hour Economy Secretariat, the forum underscored the government’s determination to move beyond rhetoric.

“The commitments made here will translate into real results — into jobs, infrastructure, and prosperity for our people,” the Minister assured, pledging that follow-up mechanisms are in place to monitor progress on all partnerships initiated.

Volta’s Moment to Lead

As deliberations concluded, Hon. James Gunu called on stakeholders to seize the momentum:

“This is our defining moment. Let us make the Volta Economic Corridor the new frontier of Ghana’s industrialisation — a model for how local potential can power national transformation.”

The Volta Economic Forum 2025 marks a significant step in repositioning the region as a pillar of Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy, signalling a future where productivity never sleeps — and where opportunity meets readiness.

Speaking to JoyNews at the state funeral of the eight people, including Dr. Boamah, who lost their lives in the August 6 military helicopter crash, Mr. Gunu recounted his exceptional approach to the 2024 general elections.

“He is one person who brought his experience and expertise as a medical doctor practitioner to bear on our electoral architecture, and he was able to demystify the rumors that the NDC was not able to collate its election in 2020.

“So when it came to the 2024 election, it was like a medical officer took the whole election system to a laboratory to diagnose and found a solution and made recommendations on what to do, especially with regard to ballot accounting and other things that will help us win the election and in fact he did very well,” Mr. Gunu eulogised.

The minister noted that Dr. Omane Boamah’s ability to merge medical precision with political strategy reflected his rare blend of professional expertise and patriotic commitment.

He emphasised that his role should not be forgotten. He also mourned the other six, describing their loss as the loss of a national asset.

Source: Albert Kuzor

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The Director-General, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, presented the cheque to the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, who was accompanied by the Municipal Chief Executive of Ketu South Municipal Assembly, Nicholas Kwabla Worclachie, along with some assembly members.

Mr. Abdul-Salam emphasized the NLA’s swift response to the disaster, stating that the organization, through its Good Causes Foundation, acted promptly to help alleviate the plight of the victims.

“We have seen the devastation the tidal waves have caused in these communities, and that is why when the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, through the Regional Minister, appealed to the NLA for support, we prioritized it. We believe our contribution will provide immediate relief to these displaced families and support them in this time of need.”

The Municipal Chief Executive of the Ketu South Municipal Assembly, Mr. Worclachie, expressed profound gratitude to the NLA for the kind gesture, which will undoubtedly make a substantial impact on the lives of the affected people.

According to the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. Gunu, the NLA is the first institution to respond to their call for help among many. He thanked Mr. Abdul-Salam and management for the support.

He further explained that the victims of the tidal waves have had their economic livelihoods cut off and are living in tents; thus, the funds will be used to provide much-needed shelter, food, and clothing to the displaced victims of Agavedzi, Asalakope, and Amunitsi, addressing their immediate needs.

The NLA Good Causes Foundation is the Authority’s charity arm, spearheading its corporate social responsibility initiatives. The Foundation operates on four pillars: Health, Education, Youth and Sports Development, and Arts and Culture.

It is hinged on Section 2(3) of the National Lotto Act, which mandates the NLA to conduct, as part of the operation of National Lotto, a lottery to provide care and protection for the physically or mentally afflicted, the needy, the aged, orphans, and destitute children.

Delivering an address at the climax of the 2025 National Girls in ICT Celebration at the Cedi Auditorium of the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho, the Minister positioned the occasion as a defining moment in Ghana’s journey towards gender-balanced digital transformation.

“The future is digital — and it must be inclusive,” he declared. “This initiative is not just a programme; it is a national investment in the intellectual capital of our young girls, who are more than capable of shaping Ghana’s digital economy.”

Held under the theme “Girls in ICT for Inclusive Digital Transformation,” the event brought together top policymakers, traditional leaders, educators, ICT professionals, parents, and over 1,000 students from across the region.

Distinguished guests included Togbe Afede XIV, Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State; Samuel Nartey George, Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation and MP for Ningo-Prampram; and Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection and MP for Krowor.

The Regional Minister lauded the Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation (MOCDTI) and its partners for selecting the Volta Region to host the 2025 edition, highlighting the region’s strategic importance in Ghana’s digital development agenda.

With over 3,000 girls and 300 STEM teachers trained across three regions, the programme has equipped participants with practical skills in web development, game animation, cybersecurity, and coding — domains critical to Ghana’s digital economy. A documentary aired at the event, “The Journey So Far,” captured the transformational impact of the initiative.

“These are not just numbers — they are lives being changed, barriers being broken, and futures being built,” the Minister emphasised.

On her part, the Minister for Gender, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, shared her personal investment in the programme, noting that she kept abreast of its progress even while outside the country during the training of 100 ICT facilitators.

“I remained actively engaged, receiving regular updates and ensuring everything stayed on course. This is a priority not only for me personally but also for the Volta Regional Coordinating Council,” she said.

She also paid glowing tribute to corporate sponsors — MTN Ghana, the Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence (KACE), and the Ghana Investment Fund for Electronic Communications (GIFEC) — for their unwavering commitment to digital equity and corporate social responsibility.

Aligning the initiative with national policy, the Minister referenced the 2025 National Budget, which earmarks substantial investment into a National Coders’ Programme and the creation of a Women’s Development Bank with seed capital exceeding GH¢51 million to advance financial and digital inclusion for women.

She also cited the 2024 NDC Manifesto, which outlines a robust Digital Jobs Initiative aimed at creating 300,000 tech-based jobs in partnership with local startups, while making internet access more affordable and stimulating homegrown digital content.

“These are not token gestures. They are part of a coordinated national roadmap to empower young people — especially girls — to become architects of Ghana’s digital future.”

One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of brand-new laptops to 100 top-performing Girls in ICT trainees, a gesture the Minister described as “an investment tool, not a reward.”

“This laptop is your gateway to a global classroom, your laboratory for innovation, and your launchpad into the tech industry,” she told the visibly elated awardees.

She further commended the parents, teachers, and mentors whose support has been instrumental in nurturing the confidence and curiosity of the girls, urging them to continue championing their dreams.

In her closing remarks, the Minister issued a rallying call to stakeholders across government, traditional leadership, academia, and the private sector:

“Let us not only equip our girls with digital tools but also ensure they have the space, confidence, and support to lead. Together, we can build a Ghana where no girl is left behind in the digital revolution.”

The ceremony concluded with cultural performances, student showcases, and interactive exhibitions that reflected the depth of creativity and potential sparked through the initiative.

As the curtains fell on this year’s National Girls in ICT celebration, one message stood clear: Ghana’s digital future is female — and that future is already unfolding in classrooms, coding labs, and innovation hubs across the country.

Mr. Gunu also inspected land allocated for the construction of a modern market in the region.

The visit aimed to foster collaboration, discuss development projects, and address pressing issues affecting the area.

The Minister met with the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ketu South and staff of the Assembly, management of Diamond Cement, the Paramount Chief of Aflao Traditional Area, Togbui Adzonugaga Amenya Fiti V, Torgbiga Adama III, Chief of Somey, Togbui Addo VIII, Paramount Chief of the Kilekor Traditional Council, and other key stakeholders.

They discussed ways to improve infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities in the region.

The Minister emphasized the importance of teamwork and cooperation between local authorities and the regional government.

He assured the authorities of his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote development and improve the lives of residents.

The MCE and traditional leaders expressed their appreciation for the Minister’s visit, highlighting the need for continued collaboration to address challenges facing the region.

The visit strengthened relationships and paved the way for future partnerships.

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has announced plans to launch a full-scale investigation into the alleged illegal sale of lands reclaimed under the Keta Sea Defence Project within the Keta Municipality.

The investigation comes in response to growing public concern and reports of irregularities surrounding the sale of these lands.

“Lands that have been reclaimed by the government through the Municipal Assemblies are meant for specific purposes. However, information reaching us indicates that some individuals have unlawfully sold these lands. We want to investigate this issue thoroughly to ensure that those involved in this unlawful activity are dealt with, and that the reclaimed land is used for its intended purpose,” Mr. Gunu stated.

The Minister made the announcement while addressing the media in the South Tongu Municipality after the confirmation of Victoria Dzeklo as the final Municipal Chief Executive nominee in all 18 MMDCEs in the Volta Region.

Mr. Gunu also expressed gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama for nominating highly competent and experienced individuals to drive the region’s development.

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He said the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC), Volta Regional House Chiefs the Peace Council will form a synergy toward achieving the objectives in his jurisdiction.

He was addressing the coronation ceremony of the Chief of Dome-Kpornuga, Togbi Ekpē Subo V, Agbotadua Amesimeku, and Mama Yeshike Subo II all of Anlo all of Anlo-Afiadenyigba Traditional Area.

“I have had discussions with the Regional Peace Council and House of Chiefs to organize capacity-building programs for our chiefs on peacebuilding and development. We are planning to institute an annual award scheme for the most peaceful traditional area in the region as well”, he said.

He added that the government has identified the roles of chiefs in the decision-making and development of the country, hence creating the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs.

“The reason for the creation of the Ministry is to ensure a sustainable collaboration between the local government, chiefs and religious leaders. It is also to revive their interest in dealings of the assemblies and restore their dignity”, he explained.

Mr. Gunu appealed for the support of the chiefs in the confirmation of the President’s nominees for the positions of Municipal and District Chief Executives “for an early implementation of the government’s resetting agenda.”

He implored the residents to support the government’s initiatives, including the National Sanitation Day, which will be announced by President Mahama soon.

“I want us all to take interest in the National Sanitation Day initiative which is aimed at promoting improved sanitation, good health, and well-being”, he said.

Mr. Gunu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering on all its promises, urging the citizenry to take cognizance in the abolishing of the E-levy and betting tax.

“Didn’t he remove the E-levy, betting tax, has it not been removed? Torgbuio, Mamao, we must continue to pray for the government, President Mahama, and the Vice President so we can deliver all the development plans we have for the Volta Region. Keta Sea Defense Project, Keta Harbor, our roads, educational and health issues will all be addressed”, he stressed.

He lauded the Afiadenyigba Traditional Area for conducting the installation of the three rulers peacefully, urging them to continue with the legacy of their forebearers in projecting the name of Anlo-Afiadenyigba.

The Chief of Dome-Kpornuga, Togbi Ekpē Subo V, who is a senior specialist obstetrician and gynecologist said their installation marks a new beginning for the Afiadenyigha Traditional Area.

He shared knowledge of the significant challenges in the areas of health, education, and livelihood, promising to rally his compatriots, the government, and philanthropic organizations to resolve them.

He hinted at establishing an award scheme for pupils in the area to drive interest in academic excellence to improve the human resources of the area.

“Charity is said to begin at home. Therefore, to encourage our children to embrace learning in school and strive for excellence, I will institute the Ekpé Subo V Award for the best academic-performing student for different levels of education to be awarded each year at the right time. The modalities for instituting this award will be discussed with the appropriate authorities and announced in due course”, he said.

He appealed for the construction of the Weta-Anlo-Afidenyigba-Havedzi road network to open up the area to propel the growth of the local economy, which heavily relies on agro-business.

The Paramount Chief of Anlo-Afiadenyigba, Apotsle Togbi Kadzahlo Drabese IV entreated the new chiefs and queen to be guided by the “voice of God and the oaths you swore” in leading their division.

He underscored the urgent need to equip the health facilities to function effectively, emphasizing the provision of a place of convenience.

The Chief of Kedzi, Togbi Tagbo urged chiefs to “resist political pressure and remain steadfast”, underscoring the significance of the Chieftaincy institution in the development of the country.

“As you ascend the throne, I urge you to be a beacon of unity and development. Listen to your people, uphold justice, and always strive to leave a legacy of progress. Be a champion of education, healthcare, and economic empowerment in your community.

“Work hand in hand with all stakeholders – traditional leaders, the government, and private partners – to bring lasting development to your people. Let your leadership be marked by fairness, integrity, and service to the common good”, he advised.

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This visit comes after a severe water shortage left thousands of residents and businesses without water for over two weeks.

The challenge was triggered by damage to crucial water pumps at the Kpeve headworks, which serves as the primary water source for the regional capital.

After weeks of intensive repair work, water has now begun flowing again to homes and offices. However, Mr. Gunu said further improvements are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the supply.

“The government is committed to expanding the facility to meet the growing population in Ho and its surrounding areas. The current demand is approximately 30,000 cubic metres, but the system is only producing 18,000 cubic metres,” he said.

Mr. Gunu also acknowledged the need for alternative water sources and revealed that a new water source has been identified at Klefe. The government will assess its potential to supply Klefe and other parts of Ho and act as a backup if the Kpeve system faces further challenges.

Ing. Ransford Nii Djan Amoo, the Regional Production Manager of GWCL, confirmed that water supply has resumed in Ho.

However, he also pointed to the supply-demand gap, which he said has led to a phased distribution system. “Some areas are still without water because we must ration it. The only way to fully meet demand is through the expansion of the Kpeve headworks.”

This crisis has underscored the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the region’s growing population.

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In a conversation on Channel One TV, Mr. Gunu stressed the immediate necessity to address several critical roads in the region that have been left in disrepair by the previous administration.

He unequivocally condemned the past NPP administration for its blatant disregard in excluding the Volta Region from the national emergency road budget.

“To ensure that the priorities of H.E. President John Dramani Mahama are realized, specifically roads, there is one major road that is so dear to the heart of the people and the President himself. That is the road from Ho to Tokpo, through Agotime-Ziope, through Akatsi North, through Ketu North, through Dzordze, and onto Aflao in Ketu South. It’s in a terrible state.

“And that road was selected under the NPP as one of the emergency roads. When they drew the national budget, capturing emergency roads in the country, they left out the Volta Region.

“When our MPs and the good people of the region started crying foul, they selected that road, but no work has ever been done on it—not even the awarding of contracts.”

Mr. Gunu emphasized that President Mahama categorically considers certain roads as “economic corridor roads,” essential for driving the region’s economic growth and enhancing trade.

He asserted his commitment to promoting peace, development, and the strengthening of district assemblies to drive progress in the region.

His appointment has generated optimism across the region, with many anticipating a leadership style that prioritizes development, infrastructure, and grassroots engagement.

Laying the Groundwork: Minister’s First Official Engagements

From day one, Hon. Gunu is expected to hit the ground running with a series of key meetings and visits aimed at familiarizing himself with pressing regional issues.

According to his special aide, Bright Delali Kugbeadzor, his first engagement will be with the Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC). This meeting will allow him to interact with administrative staff, gain insights into ongoing projects, and address existing challenges that need immediate attention.

His commitment to efficiency and impact will also be evident in his planned visit to the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) workstation in Kpeve.

The availability of clean and reliable water remains a major concern in parts of the Volta Region, and his decision to assess the situation firsthand reflects his hands-on leadership approach. By engaging with GWCL officials, he seeks to identify solutions to water supply issues and ensure improved service delivery to residents and businesses.

A Leadership Rooted in Grassroots Development

Hon. Gunu’s appointment is not just a political transition—it is seen as a strategic move to inject fresh energy into the development agenda of the Volta Region. With a background in governance and grassroots mobilization, he is expected to prioritize inclusive policies that cater to both urban and rural communities.

His leadership is expected to focus on key areas such as:

• Infrastructure Development: Addressing road networks, water supply, and energy challenges.
• Economic Growth: Strengthening agriculture, tourism, and job creation for the youth.
• Social Services: Enhancing healthcare, education, and community welfare programs.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Engaging traditional rulers, local authorities, businesses, and civil society organizations to drive meaningful progress.

Building a Collective Vision for Volta’s Progress

Hon. Gunu has emphasized the need for unity and collaboration, calling on all stakeholders to support his administration’s vision.

As he steps into office, expectations are high that his leadership will foster transparency, accountability, and innovation in governance.

With a clear agenda and a proactive approach, Hon. James Gunu’s tenure promises to be one of action and transformation. The coming months will reveal the impact of his strategies, and residents remain hopeful that his leadership will usher in significant improvements in their daily lives.

All eyes are now on the new minister as he takes on the challenge of steering the Volta Region towards sustainable growth and development.

During his vetting in Parliament on Thursday, Mr. Gunu highlighted the region’s rich array of tourist attractions and underscored the importance of making these sites more accessible and well-promoted.

He pledged to work alongside Abla Dzifa Gomashie, the MP for Ketu South and a member of the Tourism Ministry, as well as the Roads Minister, to strengthen the region’s tourism sector.

“The topography of the Volta Region is a tourist attraction in itself. It is my responsibility, as regional minister, to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that our tourist sites are accessible. Working with the Tourism Ministry and the Minister for Roads will be key to enhancing our tourism potential,” Mr. Gunu remarked.

Mr. Gunu acknowledged challenges such as poor road networks to many tourist sites, limited publicity, and low local interest in promoting lesser-known attractions.

Local reports indicate that nearly 1,000 visitors travel to the region on weekends for tourism, festivals, and funerals, but these numbers could grow significantly with better infrastructure and marketing.

To address these issues, Mr. Gunu pledged to prioritize the development of motorable roads to key tourist sites, increase awareness of hidden gems in the region, and encourage community involvement to maximize the sector’s economic potential.

Speaking during his vetting in Parliament, Mr. Gunu emphasized his commitment to prioritizing security to protect residents from violence and other harmful activities that could endanger vulnerable groups.

As the prospective Chairman of the Regional Security Council, Mr. Gunu highlighted his intention to collaborate with key stakeholders, including traditional authorities, to implement robust security measures.

“We will establish early warning systems to quickly address any threats that arise. Peace is essential for development, and without it, progress cannot be achieved,” he said.

Addressing a recent incident in Ho, where aggrieved supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) set fire to the party’s constituency office in protest over the lack of a ministerial appointment for Ho Central, Mr. Gunu noted that he could not confirm whether the unrest was politically motivated.

He added that investigations were ongoing to uncover the cause of the disturbances.

Beyond security, Mr. Gunu pledged to harness the region’s potential for development, vowing to improve the lives of the people through targeted initiatives and collaborations.

The appointment of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Regional Secretary has been widely celebrated.

Residents have lauded the decision as a clear demonstration of President Mahama’s commitment to fostering strong, grassroots-focused leadership and addressing the region’s development needs.

Speaking in an interview with Adom News, the Deputy NDC Secretary, Bright Kwashie Ege, said Mr. Gunu is a proud son of the Volta Region and a dedicated stalwart of the NDC. He described him as a unifier, a visionary leader, and a champion of development.

Mr. Ege indicated that Mr. Gunu, renewed for his exceptional leadership skills, deep commitment to community empowerment, and unwavering dedication to progress, has earned the respect and admiration of people across the region and beyond.

“James Gunu has always been a man of the people. He understands the challenges we face and has what it takes to bring about real change,” Bright Ege, NDC Volta Regional Deputy Secretary, stated.

“Mr. Gunu, who previously served as the District Chief Executive (DCE) for Akatsi North and later as the Volta Regional Secretary of the NDC, is no stranger to leadership. His tenure as DCE was marked by significant infrastructural development, youth empowerment programs, and a focus on education and healthcare,” Mr. Ege added.

He continued, “We are hopeful that James Gunu will be a strong voice for the Volta Region and ensure we get our fair share of national resources.”

Mr. Ege stressed that Mr. Gunu’s deep understanding of the region’s challenges and his close relationship with local communities make him an ideal candidate for the position. He further advised party members to continue working towards development, noting their hard work will surely pay off, just as it has for Mr. Gunu.

Traditional leaders have already pledged their support for Mr. Gunu, with chiefs across the region commending Mahama for the appointment.

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The demonstration led by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) seeks among other things to compel the EC to rectify anomalies and discrepancies identified by the opposition party, heading into the 2024 December elections.

The region’s party Secretary, James Gunu made this known in an interview with Joy News at the Volta Regional Secretariat in Ho, on Monday.

He explained that, activists of other political parties who have also raised their voices against the anomalies identified would join the demonstration together with residents from all walks of life.

“The number of protestors we are expecting will be getting to 20,000. You know it is our [NDC] World Bank, our stronghold, so a lot of people [will turn up]. Let us expect beyond 20,000 to pour into the streets of Ho tomorrow to demonstrate against the Jean Mensah-led electoral commission,” he said.

He said all requirements have been met, including police clearance, in anticipation of a successful protest tomorrow, in a bid to ensure, free, fair, and credible general elections.

Mr. Gunu stressed that the NDC needed to hit the streets as several calls on the EC to rectify the anomalies fell on deaf ears, adding that the “register has been compromised.”

“We can not go into an election with a register whose integrity has been compromised by the Electoral Commission. They have messed up the entire register and we will pour out to the streets tomorrow in Ho to express our displeasure about the conduct of the Jean Mensah-led Electoral Commission”, he noted.

He outlined that there were discrepancies in the provisional register provided to the NDC and that of the EC during the just-ended voters’ register exhibition, insisting “that made the whole thing very serious”.

He said the NDC ultimately seeks to prevent being disenfranchised as experienced in the 2020 general elections, preventing some electorates from participating in the democratic exercise.

“We experienced a similar thing in 2020, where many of our people went to the voting center and their names could not be found in the register. That was what affected Richard Ahiagba, but him being an NPP person, they used a pen to write his name in the register and allowed him to vote.

“Where the majority of the people, these poor people who woke up at dawn, went and queued at the polling station were not allowed to vote. We don’t want the same thing to happen again, and we will do everything possible to resist,” he concluded.

Source: Fred Quame Asare

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