The GaDangme Council has congratulated President John Dramani Mahama on his election win and urged him to give inclusivity and equity top priority in his administration by assigning capable GaDangme community members to important roles.
The Council underlined the necessity of equitable regional and ethnic representation in government in a statement signed by its president, Nii Ayikoi Otoo. The statement also highlighted important issues that the GaDangme people face and that need immediate attention.
Key Concerns Raised by the GaDangme Council
Resolution of Compulsory Land Acquisitions
The Council called on the government to address longstanding land disputes, including compensation for lands compulsorily acquired by the state. It further urged President Mahama to consider returning lands that are no longer being used for their original purposes and to de-vest GaDangme lands currently held by the state.
Release of the GaDangme Community Centre
The statement also appealed for the release of the GaDangme Community Centre and its forecourt, which remain inaccessible due to state acquisitions under Executive Instrument (E.I.) 59. The Council requested an amendment to the E.I. to exclude the Centre, allowing it to serve its intended cultural and social purposes. Additionally, it urged the government to ensure that revenue generated from the James Town and Ussher Town Forts is shared with the Ga Traditional Council to support local development.
Revitalization of Ga Language Education
Expressing concern over the decline in the teaching of the Ga language in schools within the Greater Accra Region, the Council appealed to President Mahama to direct the Ministry of Education to implement policies that will revive and promote the language.
Appointment of GaDangme MMDCEs
The Council also called for the appointment of competent GaDangme individuals to Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executive (MMDCE) positions within the Greater Accra Region, citing a history of underrepresentation.
Completion of Key Infrastructure Projects
The statement further urged the government to expedite the completion of the Salaga Market and Sempe School, which were demolished for redevelopment over a decade ago but remain incomplete, causing distress to displaced market traders and students.
The GaDangme Council expressed confidence in President Mahama’s leadership and urged his administration to work closely with local leaders to ensure that these pressing issues are addressed.
