Former President and leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has criticised the government's failure to prevent the recent wave of floods in the country despite claiming to have spent millions of dollars on flood prevention.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Mahama expressed profound concern about the government's lack of a comprehensive flood prevention and management plan. This concern is heightened by the recent heavy downpours in Accra and other parts of the country, which have caused significant destruction of property and loss of life.
Mahama cited the government's claim of having spent $200 million on the Greater Accra Resilient Integrated Development Programme (GARID) and the recent approval of another $150 million for the same project as evidence of the administration's failure to manage and prevent floods effectively.
He underscored the need for an engineering solution to the persistent flooding and made a firm commitment. A new NDC government under his leadership would not rest until an effective prevention and management plan is implemented. This plan, he outlined, would involve investing in sustainable drainage systems, removing structures in waterways, implementing proper waste management, and taking proactive measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rains.
Mahama urged Ghanaians to unite and work together to build a safer and more resilient country, emphasising that their voices and actions are crucial in this endeavour.
The former president's statement follows widespread criticism of the government's response to the recent floods, with many questioning the effectiveness of measures to prevent such disasters.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of the floods, Mahama's comments should reignite discussions about the need for a more robust approach to flood prevention and management in Ghana.