Traditional leaders in Tema and Ashaiman have called on President John Dramani Mahama to appoint a competent individual to lead the Tema Development Corporation (TDC) and address the challenges of urban development and proper planning in Tema and its surrounding areas, including Ashaiman, Nungua, and Kpone.
Speaking to journalists in Tema, the traditional leaders expressed concerns over the deterioration of the city’s infrastructure and the need for urgent reforms at TDC.
They lamented the excessive politicization of development efforts in the area and emphasized the need for a capable leader to refocus efforts on urban planning.
The leaders specifically endorsed Kwasi Darko Asare for the role of Managing Director of TDC, citing his expertise and experience. The Regent of Ashaiman, Nii Annan Adzor, stated that Mr. Asare, a land economist and former Director of Estates at TDC, has a deep understanding of the city’s dynamics.
“I have known Mr. Kwasi Darko Asare for years, and he has distinguished himself as a land economist. He understands the complexities of this enclave, and we strongly urge the President to confirm his appointment. The traditional leaders in the catchment area will support him to succeed,” Nii Annan Adzor stated.
The chiefs noted that Tema, once the first planned city in West Africa, has been poorly managed in recent years, with greenbelt areas encroached upon and planning regulations ignored.
The Chief of Ashaiman, who is also a member of the traditional council, commended Mr. Asare’s professional integrity, describing him as intelligent, decent, and highly competent.
“Mr. Asare is professional and capable. When he served as Director of Estates, he worked well with us. We trust that he will understand the traditional authorities in Tema, Kpone, Ashaiman, and Nungua,” he remarked.
The Nii Shipi of the Tema Traditional Council, Nii Shomponu II, also welcomed the idea of Mr. Asare’s appointment, pledging his full support.
“I will personally welcome the President’s appointment of Mr. Kwasi Darko Asare as the MD of TDC. He is the right person for the job, and we will support his bid,” he said.
Additionally, the traditional leaders urged President Mahama to appoint a Tema indigene as mayor, arguing that local leadership is crucial for effective urban planning.
Former Mayor of Tema and Council of State member Nii Adjei Annan also backed the calls for Mr. Asare’s appointment, emphasizing the need for leadership that understands Tema’s original planning structure.
“It is about time TDC was entrusted to someone who has been part of the system and understands the city’s original planning vision. Planning issues in Tema have worsened over the years,” Nii Adjei Annan stated.
He blamed the destruction of Tema’s urban layout on the politicization of TDC appointments, which, he argued, has led to personal and political interests taking precedence over development.
“Kwasi Darko Asare has the character, capacity, and ability to relate to people. He is the right person for the job,” he concluded.