The Assembly Member for Wuxor, Have, and Sremanu Electoral Area, Japhet Festus Gbede, has praised President John Dramani Mahama and the NDC government for demonstrating genuine commitment to the development of the Volta Region.

Gbede, who also doubles as a communicator of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Special Aide to Ghana’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, H.E. Alhaji Said Sinare, made his commendations following the President’s sod-cutting for the construction of 177 kilometres of roads from Atipoku to Aflao under the Big Push Project, a flagship intervention aimed at transforming transportation, creating jobs, and boosting economic activity across the region.

Speaking to journalists in Ho yesterday, Gbede said the project marks a historic turning point for the people of Volta.

“This initiative is not just about roads; it is about access to markets, expansion of businesses, agricultural growth, and the restoration of dignity to communities long neglected. This is the kind of visionary leadership President Mahama and the NDC stand for,” he said.

The Assemblymember, however, contrasted this development drive with what he described as the NPP’s “legacy of deception and failed governance.”

“The NPP promised us a ‘Year of Roads’, but what they delivered was a ‘Year of Potholes’. For eight years, our people endured dust, mud, and broken promises. At one point, Volta Region was completely forgotten in their national budget. That is the true history of the NPP deception, neglect, and betrayal,” Gbede jabbed.

He added that the poor governance of the NPP has left Ghana’s economy in shambles, with unbearable inflation, collapsed businesses, job losses, and unsustainable debt levels.

“The way they governed this country has already sentenced them to rot in opposition for a very long time. They destroyed livelihoods, crippled the cedi, and robbed Ghanaians of hope. The people will never forget,” he warned.

On the way forward, Hon. Gbede cautioned contractors handling the Atipoku–Aflao roads to deliver quality and durable work. He also charged Assembly members in the beneficiary areas to act as watchdogs for their communities.

“We must not allow shoddy work. These roads are for the people, and the people deserve the best. Assembly members should ensure that every kilometer constructed reflects the sweat of the taxpayer,” he said.

The Assemblymember further warned strongly against theft of materials meant for the project.

“Anybody who attempts to steal cement, iron rods, or gravel meant for this project is an enemy of the people, the region, and progress. This is a national investment, and it must not be sabotaged by greed,” he cautioned.

Gbede concluded by lauding President Mahama’s leadership, describing him as “the father of infrastructure in Ghana.”

He reaffirmed his confidence that under the NDC, the Volta Region will never again be left behind in national development.