Member of Parliament for New Juaben South Constituency, Michael Okyere Baafi, is urging collaborative efforts to address security concerns within the constituency, emphasizing that development is a shared responsibility essential for rapid progress.
During the commissioning of three significant projects— a police post at the Koforidua Technical University (KTU), a 500-capacity mini sports stadium named after business conglomerate J.K. Okyere, and a modern toilet facility for the Presbyterian Cluster of Schools in Betom (RIIS)—Baafi called for a change in attitude toward the management and use of public properties.
He explained that the new police post at KTU would enhance security and protect lives and property, particularly given the growing student population of over 12,000 at KTU.
“We have had several incidents of attacks on students and staff, sometimes resulting in fatalities. This police post is meant to ensure police visibility and combat crime within the area,” he stated.
Baafi revealed that plans were in place to establish a fire station near the police post to provide comprehensive safety coverage, as the university and surrounding areas continue to grow.
“The Kasadjan road has become a busy road now, hosting major hotels and businesses. We have a responsibility as leaders to ensure that people who come here are safe and that everyone can go about their business without fear,” he added.
ACP Richard Appiah, Deputy Eastern Regional Police Commander, praised the initiative, highlighting the high costs involved in bringing police services closer to communities.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between civil society organizations, philanthropists, and local communities in supporting police visibility.
“The Police Transformation Agenda under the leadership of Mr. George Akufu Dampare will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders to bring the police closer to the people,” he said, expressing gratitude to Baafi and his partners for the new police post.
Regarding the J.K. Okyere Mini Sports Stadium at KTU, Baafi noted that the facility features a 500-seat capacity, dressing rooms for both teams, and restrooms, making it suitable for league matches and other sporting activities.
He also pointed out that the stadium complements existing sports infrastructure, such as the AstroTurf fields at Betom Methodist and Sarkodie School, to boost sports development in the municipality.
At the RIIS school, Baafi encouraged the management to ensure the proper use and maintenance of the new toilet facility.
Highlighting the ongoing cholera outbreaks in parts of the country, he advised the students to always wash their hands thoroughly after using the facility to prevent the spread of disease.