'I just want one person as a scapegoat' - Linda Ocloo vows to sack MMDCEs who issue wrong permits

Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has warned that any Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executive (MMDCEs) found to have issued permits for buildings constructed on waterways will be removed.

Addressing journalists during the nationwide clean-up exercise on July 10, 2026, the minister said the move would serve as a deterrent to public officials who abuse their authority and contribute to flooding through poor planning decisions.

“I am more than ready. In fact, I just want one person as a scapegoat. That is what I am looking for. Just one person as a scapegoat,” she said.

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Linda Ocloo explained that authorities were currently working to identify officials responsible for granting permits for structures located on waterways, noting that some developers claim to have obtained approval from the relevant assemblies.

“Sometimes you go to places and they confirm they have permits. You ask them, where are their permits? So, we want to have those permits as indicated by those people.

“If we have their permits and find out that there is this particular MCE who is responsible, why not? That person will be fired,” she added.

Her comments follow President John Mahama’s directive that MMDCEs who approve developments along waterways should face sanctions, amid growing concerns over recurring flooding in parts of the country.

See the video below:

'I just want one person as a scapegoat.'

Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo says officials of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies who approve permits for buildings on waterways will be sanctioned.

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