Floods: Palgrave Boakye-Danquah urges Mahama to suspend non-essential activities

Former Government Spokesperson on Governance and Security, Dr Palgrave Boakye-Danquah, has called on President John Dramani Mahama to place the country's flood response at the centre of government business as the Ghana Meteorological Agency forecasts heavy rainfall over the coming days.

In a statement on governance, security and Ghana's response to the impending floods, Dr Boakye-Danquah said the projected downpours from July 2 through Sunday demand visible leadership, coordinated action and clear communication from the state.

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According to him, while the president's aerial inspection of flood-hit communities, national prayers and participation in project commissioning are important state functions, the current situation requires the government to demonstrate unwavering focus on protecting lives and property.

"I note the President's aerial assessment of flood-impacted areas, the national prayers, and the inauguration of development projects in Tema. These are important functions of the state. However, during a period of national risk, the signal the state must send is one of total focus and command," he stated.

Dr Boakye-Danquah proposed three key measures he believes would strengthen the country's emergency response, beginning with what he described as a centralised command and communication strategy.

He urged the government to keep the public informed about decisions taken at the recently announced emergency Cabinet meeting and National Security engagements.

"The nation should be briefed on the outcomes and timelines from the announced emergency Cabinet meeting and the National Security engagement. Clear communication builds public confidence and reduces panic," he said.

The former government spokesperson also called for proactive public safety directives to guide citizens before the anticipated rains intensify.

"A coordinated directive is needed on safety protocols, workplace and business continuity, and the welfare of schoolchildren in vulnerable districts, ahead of the projected rains," he recommended.

He further appealed to the government to temporarily put non-essential state activities on hold to allow key institutions to focus entirely on the looming weather threat.

"For the duration of this emergency, it would be prudent to deprioritise non-essential activities. This will allow the Presidency, NADMO, MMDCEs and security agencies to operate with a singular focus on prevention, protection and rapid response," he said.

Dr Boakye-Danquah stressed that Ghana's ability to deal with climate-related disasters depends more on preparedness than emergency reaction.

"Ghana's resilience to climate-induced events depends less on reaction and more on preparedness, clarity of command and disciplined execution. The people must feel the presence of the state, not only after the floods, but in the hours and days before them," he stated.

Despite his concerns, he expressed confidence in the country's institutions and security services, urging them to demonstrate strong leadership as the rains approach.

"I have full confidence in our institutions and security services. What is required now is visible coordination, decisive communication, and leadership that places citizens at the centre of the response," he added.

NA/BAI