Ahmed Ibrahim slams delay in 24-Hour Economy Market project

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has questioned the Ayawaso North Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) over delays in the construction of a proposed 24-Hour Economy Model Market, despite millions of cedis having been allocated for development projects within the municipality.

His remarks come amid concerns over delays in implementing the market project, which is expected to provide improved trading facilities for traders currently operating along roadsides and in other congested areas within the municipality.

Speaking during an engagement with local authorities in a video posted on social media, the Minister expressed concern that funds released to the assembly had remained largely unutilised nearly a year after disbursement, while traders continue to operate under challenging conditions.

According to him, Parliament approved funding for the assembly through the District Assemblies Common Fund, with approximately GH¢42 million subsequently released to the municipality.

However, he revealed that only about 10 per cent of the funds had been utilised after almost a year.

"It means you don't need the money. Parliament approved the District Assemblies Common Fund formula. We've approved GH¢58 million for you. The actual release is GH¢42 million. You have used only 10 per cent in one year," he stated.

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The Minister questioned why development projects had stalled despite the availability of resources, arguing that public officials should focus on the tangible impact of government spending on citizens rather than simply keeping funds in bank accounts.

"The impact on the people is what we consider. What has been the impact of the money on the people? That's what, in 2026, we are willing to communicate," he said.

Using healthcare infrastructure as an example, Ibrahim stressed that assemblies must prioritise projects that address the immediate needs of residents.

"If you don't have CHPS compounds, do you have a hospital within the district? Is it in good shape? If it's not in good shape, use part of the money to put it in good shape. Then the people will know that your assembly has improved upon their health needs," he added.

The Minister further criticised the decision to leave large sums of public funds idle, drawing a comparison with the biblical parable of the servant who buried his talent instead of investing it.

"If you were to put GH¢30 million in a bank account without using a pesewa, have you ever read the Bible? The one who went and dug a hole and put the money there. What's the difference between you and him?" he asked.

Ibrahim's comments underscore growing pressure on local assemblies to accelerate development projects and ensure that public funds are translated into visible improvements in the lives of residents.

@nana.kwaku268 *Local Gov’t Minister Queries Ayawaso North MCE Over 24-Hour Economy Funds* Minister for Local Government Ahmed Ibrahim has questioned Ayawaso North MCE Mohammed Awal over why funds meant for the 24-hour economy model market have been kept in the bank for a year while market women continue to trade on the streets. He said the essence of the Common Fund is to ensure citizens feel the impact of government, which he noted is also President John Dramani Mahama’s priority. #fyppppppppppppppp #goviral #trending #johnmahama #whattowatch ♬ original sound - NANA K 360