The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has vowed to sack any Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executive (MMDCE) found to have authorised the construction of buildings on waterways, warning that such officials will face severe sanctions.
She affirmed her readiness to make an example of any MMDCE who grants permits for developments in unauthorised areas, particularly on waterways, which have been identified as a major cause of flooding in the region.
Speaking to the media on Friday, July 10, during the first day of the National General Clean-up exercise, she said, “I’m more than ready. In fact, I just want one person as a scapegoat. That is what I’m looking for. Just one person as a scapegoat,” she said.
Her comments followed concerns over buildings erected along waterways and flood-prone areas, with President John Dramani Mahama directing that MMDCEs who approve such developments should be sanctioned.
Linda Ocloo explained that some residents whose structures have been identified for demolition claim to have acquired permits from local authorities, adding that investigations will be conducted to establish the source of such approvals.
“If we have that permit and find out that there’s this particular MCE who is responsible, why not? That person will be fired,” she stated.
The Regional Minister also disclosed that demolition exercises are ongoing in parts of the Greater Accra Region as part of broader efforts to clear unauthorised structures and restore waterways.
She added that some structures have already been earmarked for removal, with affected occupants expected to vacate the areas within the stipulated period.
The National General Clean Up exercise, which commenced on Friday, July 10, is being held across seven flood-affected regions as part of government’s efforts to improve sanitation, clear blocked drains and reduce the risk of future flooding following the June 29 floods.
The exercise, organised under the auspices of the Post-Flood Mitigation Committee, is being implemented in two phases, with personnel from the security services, MMDAs and waste management companies leading activities on the first day, while members of the public are expected to participate on Saturday.
The initiative follows the devastating June 29 floods, which affected several communities, particularly in the Greater Accra Region, resulting in loss of lives, displacement of residents and extensive damage to property and infrastructure.
