Former Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei-Mensah has refuted claims of intentionally abandoning the Presidential Villa and the Regional Minister’s Bungalow at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC).
About five houses, including the Regional Minister’s residence and the Presidential Lodge, have reportedly been left unoccupied for eight years, leading to their deterioration.
On a visit to the facilities last week, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ashanti Region alleged looting of some installations by the immediate-past administration and vowed to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.
However, Mr. Osei-Mensah, in a statement, explained that he inherited significant challenges upon assuming office on February 22, 2017.
He noted that neither the ARCC nor he would intentionally allow state assets to deteriorate.
He attributed the challenges to financial constraints beyond the ARCC’s control and reiterated his commitment to resolving these issues during his time in office.
He cited a GH¢1.5 million debt overhang, broken-down vehicles, outdated office equipment, a deteriorating administration block, and inadequate staff housing as key issues.
The former Minister indicated that he implemented strict expenditure controls and claimed that the ARCC was debt-free by the end of his tenure on January 6, 2025.
Regarding the state of official vehicles, Mr. Osei-Mensah revealed that he used his personal Land Cruiser for months as most vehicles were either broken down or lacked fuel.
Mr. Osei-Mensah also noted that steps were taken to repair the administration block, using the ARCC budget to fund renovations and securing central government support for a six-story building project, which is currently under construction.
For the residence, he stated that he used personal funds for minor repairs and sought government assistance, though only partial funding was received.
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Read the full statement below: