Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) General Secretary, John Boadu, has responded to criticisms from the Ministry of Health over the completion of the Agenda 111 projects.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Boadu dismissed the Ministry’s claims, arguing that their expectations were too high.
According to him, the project is ambitious and requires time.
He pointed out that some hospitals have already been commissioned, questioning why there is still dissatisfaction.
“Are they are expecting former President Akufo-Addo to come and finish the work himself? Should we pay taxes to Akufo-Addo to go and finish the Agenda 111 project for you to be there? NDC wanted Akufo-Addo to leave behind money before they can complete the Agenda 111, or what?”Mr. Boadu asked.
The NPP Minority had claimed that the hospitals in Trede, Kokoben, and Ahanta were fully completed and operational.
However, the Ministry of Health clarified on March 4 that these projects were still unfinished, with $8.03 million required to complete each facility.
The Ministry also stated that medical equipment had not been installed, and some laboratory facilities were still under construction.
But Mr. Boadu defended the government’s approach, explaining that the previous administration had no dedicated funds for such projects.
He added that the funding for Agenda 111 was expected to come from the GOG, which has been a key source for many such projects.
“The previous government didn’t have a fund for this; they were relying on the Government of Ghana (GOG) to release funds as and when available. So, they should continue in that manner,” he said.
He further stated, “Agenda 111 is an ambitious program. We never had a dedicated fund for hospitals. So, where were you expecting us to get the money from? The money was supposed to come from GOG.”
Addressing the concerns about the unfinished projects, Mr. Boadu urged those complaining to act professionally and not focus on the shortcomings.
“There are a lot of interventions they can bring on board to help continue the work,” he suggested.
He also called for quick thinking from the NDC government to find solutions to the financial challenges.
“If you think you can’t do it, just let us know, but stop complaining and work with what we have. Some hospitals are already complete and need staff to operate. Let’s move forward.”