With the government’s decision to reduce the Suame Interchange Project from its original four-tier design, former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Suame, Maxwell Ofosu Boakye, has stated that the review cannot be accepted.

In an interview on Kumasi-based Angel FM, Maxwell Ofosu Boakye said the government’s initial explanation, that there is not enough money for a four-tier interchange in Suame, cannot be accepted, given that the government claims the economy is stable and things are running smoothly in Ghana.

He further noted that the current NDC government has set aside $10 billion for a Big Push Agenda aimed at constructing major roads across various regions, questioning whether the NDC’s decision to reduce the four-tier interchange is intended to sideline Kumasi.

NPP MPs question government's funding priorities in Suame Interchange

According to the former MCE, the most challenging part of the Suame Interchange project had already been completed by the NPP before leaving office, and the NDC government cannot downgrade it.

“We cannot agree with the Minister. He came to meet a four-tier interchange, so what has changed for him to now say it should be reduced to a two-tier interchange? The initial reason given was that the government didn’t have money, yet they claim everything is running smoothly.

“Is it because it’s Kumasi that the NDC says there’s no money? I’ve also heard about the Big Push agenda, where $10 billion is being committed for roads in other regions, yet they claim there’s no money for the Suame Interchange.

“The most difficult part of the project was already completed by the NPP, so the NDC government cannot downgrade it,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Roads and Highways, Kwame Agbodza, explained that the interchange was reduced from four tiers to accommodate the construction of an outer ring road in light of new developments within the greater Kumasi area.

He added that while the original design was not arbitrary and served the opportunities available at the time, “with the construction of the outer ring road, an even more appropriate option is being offered.”

@expert.official2

The most difficult Part of the Suame Interchange Protect has already been done by the NPP Administration, so NDC government cannot Review it to a Lower Level.

♬ original sound - Maxwell Ofosu Boakye