Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo has issued a stern directive to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to ensure public spaces remain clean throughout the festive season, warning that failure to comply will attract sanctions.

Speaking at the launch of "Operation Free Traffic" on Thursday, December 4, the Regional Minister announced a comprehensive traffic management initiative aimed at addressing the severe congestion that typically paralyzes the capital during the Christmas period.

Mrs. Ocloo made it clear that MMDCEs who neglect their responsibilities will be held accountable, emphasizing that the directive comes directly from the highest levels of government.

"I have directed the Assemblies to ensure public spaces are kept clean. Following a meeting with the President, all Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies have been instructed to enforce strict compliance. They must clear all choked drains and improve sanitation within their jurisdictions. Any MMDCE who fails will be sanctioned accordingly," she stated.

The operation mobilizes the Accra and Tema Police Commands, the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), and all Assemblies to intensify patrols, rigorously enforce traffic laws, and deploy officers to congestion hotspots including markets, shopping malls, major intersections, and entertainment venues.

Under the new measures, abandoned vehicles blocking traffic will be towed immediately, with owners facing a GHC 2,000 penalty. Commercial drivers, market traders, event organizers, and nightclub operators have been warned against activities that obstruct traffic flow.

Beyond traffic management, Assemblies have been specifically instructed to clear choked gutters, trim overgrown medians, and maintain proper sanitation standards across their jurisdictions. Failure to execute these tasks will result in direct consequences for the responsible MMDCEs.

The stakeholder meeting convened district and divisional police commanders, MTTD officials, MMDCEs, and other key stakeholders to coordinate strategies for managing the anticipated festive season rush.

Mrs. Ocloo also called on residents to remain alert, report suspicious activities, and support efforts to ensure a safe and orderly holiday period. She emphasized zero tolerance for indiscriminate parking, unauthorized street trading, and obstruction of pavements and roadways.

The Regional Minister's tough stance signals a shift toward greater accountability for local government officials in maintaining urban infrastructure and public health standards.