A group of aggrieved farmers from Sehwi Bodi in the Western North Region staged a protest on Monday to express their frustrations over the government’s failure to compensate them for their lands, which were acquired for the construction of a hospital under the Agenda 111 project.
The farmers, who had willingly relinquished their farmlands for the hospital’s construction in anticipation of compensation, accused the government of neglecting their concerns and failing to fulfill its promises.
The land, which was the primary source of livelihood for these farmers, was cleared for the project over three years ago, yet the promised compensation has not been disbursed.
Clad in red headbands and armbands, the demonstrators marched through the streets of Sehwi Bodi, chanting slogans and wielding placards with inscriptions such as “Our Land, Our Livelihood,” “Pay Us Our Due,” and “Government, Honour Your Promises.”
Some of the affected farmers explained that, they had been patient for too long, despite several attempts to engage with authorities.
They indicated that, they are not against the hospital’s construction, acknowledging its benefits for the community.
However, they cannot endure seeing their families suffer while the government ignores their compensation claims.
The Agenda 111 project, a flagship initiative by the government, aims to improve healthcare infrastructure by constructing 111 hospitals across the country.
While the hospital at Sehwi Bodi is still under construction, tension is mounting as the farmers continue to face financial difficulties due to the loss of their farms.
The District Chief Executive (DCE) for the Bodi District, Ignatius Akwasi Amankwa, addressed the concerns of the demonstrators.
He appealed for calm and assured them that steps were being taken to resolve the issue.
Source: Augustine Boah
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