In a recent parliamentary session, Francis Asenso-Boakye, Member of Parliament for Bantama and former Minister of Roads and Highways, criticized former President John Dramani Mahama’s comments on road infrastructure debt in his State of the Nation Address.
Highlighting Contradictions in Infrastructure Investment
Asenso-Boakye pointed out what he described as contradictions in Mahama’s address, arguing that while the former president emphasized the importance of road infrastructure for national development, he also lamented the debt incurred.
He contended that such investments are crucial for economic growth, stating, “Debt, in itself, is not bad; it depends on how it is used.” He referenced the U.S. interstate highway program of the 1950s, which reportedly yielded six dollars in economic returns for every dollar invested.
Defending the NPP’s Infrastructure Record
The former minister defended the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) track record, highlighting that between 2017 and 2024, the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration worked on 13,624.25 kilometers of roads, compared to 4,636 kilometers under the previous National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration. He clarified that these figures include construction, rehabilitation, reconstruction, and upgrading projects.
Advancements in Interchanges and Bridges
Beyond road construction, Asenso-Boakye emphasized the NPP administration’s achievements in developing interchanges and bridges to improve connectivity and safety. He stated that the Akufo-Addo administration had completed nine interchanges, with 13 more under construction, compared to five completed under the Mills-Mahama administration.
He also noted that between 2017 and 2024, over 35 bridges had been completed, with more than 50 others at various stages of construction nationwide.
Addressing Urban Road Conditions
Responding to Mahama’s concerns about poor roads in urban areas, Asenso-Boakye attributed the issue to rapid urbanization and population growth. He explained that as cities expand, new access roads are created, initially in basic conditions awaiting further investment, which he said reflects the government’s responsiveness to growing urban populations.
Conclusion
Asenso-Boakye concluded by asserting that the road sector is in a better state than before, emphasizing the NPP’s commitment to infrastructure development.
“Our record in the roads sector is unmatched and unprecedented. No other government in Ghana’s history has done more,” he declared.
The parliamentary debate continues to highlight differing views on infrastructure investment and its role in national development.