The District Chief Executive (DCE) for Ajumako Enyan Essiam in Ghana’s Central Region, Hon. Andrews Kojo Duodu, has expressed deep concern over the deplorable condition of the official DCE residence, describing it as uninhabitable and a financial liability to the district.
During a recent inspection of the residence, Hon. Duodu revealed that nearly all furnishings and essential items had either gone missing or had been left damaged beyond use. The few remaining items, including mattresses, chairs, fridges, and air conditioners, were reportedly rotten or broken, with curtains removed from rooms.
“It is shocking and disheartening. There is practically nothing left in the building, just damaged and rotten items. The structure is not only unfit for habitation but poses a serious safety risk,” the DCE told GHOne News in an interview.
The DCE attributed the poor state of the residence to the negligence of the previous occupant, the immediate past DCE, and criticised the lack of accountability in maintaining government properties.
Due to the current condition of the building, Hon. Duodu said he has chosen to stay at his private residence in Mankessim instead of risking his safety in the official quarters.
“Renovating this building and refurnishing the rooms will cost the Assembly a huge sum of money, resources that could have been used to build schools, clinics, roads, or other essential projects,” he lamented.
He warned that the building is on the verge of collapse and urged immediate renovation to prevent a potential disaster. The DCE also cautioned public servants occupying government bungalows to uphold a culture of maintenance and responsibility.
“We must all take care of state properties. Neglecting these assets causes financial loss to the state, and it’s time we Ghanaians adopt a maintenance mindset,” he added.
Hon. Duodu assured the public that once the residence is restored, he will ensure it is properly maintained to avoid similar issues in the future.
Source: Yaw Boagyan
