Bongo community commends government

Bongo (U/E), Jan. 20, GNA - The people of Bongo in the Upper East Region on Monday commended the New Patriotic Party government (NPP) for its honesty and sincerely with the people even though they voted massively against it in the 2000 general election.
The people made the commendation at the third People's Assembly forum at Bongo and said they recognised government's efforts in ensuring that Bongo gets its fair share of the national cake. "This is a clear indication that you have not let us down. We would not let you down too, we would support you to the fullest," a contributor said.
A number of people who took turns to ask questions at the forum, made suggestions to government on the need to sustain the peace in the country and maintain law and order.
The people expressed concerns about malfunctioning Unit Committees in the area and called for immediate restructuring of the local government system to make all the organs function in order to promote effective development through grassroots participation.
Other concerns raised included the immediate re-awarding of the construction of the Feo Dam, which was given out on contract last year under the LACOSREP phase two projects and was expected to complete in nine months but the contractor failed to deliver.
The revamping of the tomato and meat factories in Bolgatanga, passage of the disability bill into law, and a central refuse dump for the district were among the concerns raised.
The government team that interacted with the people included the Deputy Minister of Information, Mr Andrew Awuni, Madam Hawa Yakubu, Member of Parliament for the Bawku Central Constituency, Dr Agesika Agambila, Deputy Minister for Ports, Habours and Railways, the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr. Mahami Salifu and Mr Francis Afoko, Member Of Council of State.
Mr Salifu said government had no intentions of shelving any bill or laws to its advantage, adding that although people with disability (PWDs) may have genuine concerns the country's constitution does not discriminate against anybody or group of persons. He said what must be addressed is to change negative perceptions and attitude towards PWDs, appreciate their situation and accept them as part of the human race.
Madam Yakubu told the people that government was determined to bring the needed development to the Bongo community. "We know you did not vote for us but you have tasted real development in these three years of the NPP rule. We need your support and co-operation to do more"
She called on the people to show appreciation for government's efforts and give Mr Andrews Awuni the mandate to serve them in parliament in the forthcoming general elections.
Mr Awuni refuted allegations that government had established a sheanut processing factory in the south and said the factory was the personal initiative of one Nana Osiribuo and that government had no right to interfere in legally established businesses. 20 Jan. 04