President Mahama Orders Security Reinforcement in Ghana’s Bono East Region Amid Surge in Armed Robberies

President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Interior Minister and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to deploy additional security personnel to the Bono East Region in response to the rising incidents of armed robberies. The move comes after growing concerns over public safety in areas such as Atebubu, Amente, Sene East and West, and the Pru districts, where robbery cases have become increasingly rampant.

Addressing the Security Challenge

Addressing residents during his “Thank You Tour” in Kintampo, Mr. Mahama acknowledged the growing insecurity in the region and assured the public that the government is taking concrete steps to address the issue. “We are aware of the challenges in the eastern corridor of Bono East. In response, I have directed the Minister for Interior and the IGP to deploy additional security personnel to those areas where robbery has become rampant,” he stated.

Enhancing Police Capacity

To enhance the police’s capacity in combating crime and ensuring public safety, Mr. Mahama announced that the government would provide patrol vehicles and communication equipment to the police. This move is expected to boost the police’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to security threats in the region.

Governance Update

In a broader governance update, Mr. Mahama revealed a significant policy shift regarding the evaluation of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). He disclosed that the Cabinet has approved new guidelines for the utilisation of the District Assembly Common Fund, with effective usage now serving as a key performance indicator for all MMDCEs.

New Guidelines for MMDCEs

“Eighty per cent of the funds will go directly to the regions, with guidelines approved by Cabinet. We’ll assess the performance of MMDCEs based on how well they use these resources,” he emphasised. “We will see what you’ve done with the fund, and based on that, decide whether you stay or you go.” This new approach is expected to promote accountability and transparency in the management of district funds.

Warm Reception in Kintampo

The President was warmly received in Kintampo, where hundreds of residents turned out to welcome him. During the event, the President of the Bono East Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Pimampim Yaw Kagbrese V, commended the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi against the US dollar, expressing hope for a further drop to single digits.

Economic Updates

Mr. Mahama also addressed the falling cost of the Hajj pilgrimage, attributing the reduction to the strengthening cedi. He noted that this year’s fare dropped from GHS75,000 to GHS62,000 and projected that it could fall below GHS50,000 next year if the currency continues its strong performance. Additionally, he confirmed that the government had honoured its promise to make Eid al-Fitr a statutory public holiday.

Key Points

Mahama orders security reinforcement in Bono East amid surge in armed robberies.
Government to provide patrol vehicles and communication equipment to the police.
New guidelines for MMDCEs’ evaluation based on effective usage of District Assembly Common Fund.
80% of funds will go directly to regions, with guidelines approved by Cabinet.
Government honours promise to make Eid al-Fitr a statutory public holiday.

Source: Africa Publicity