The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) is seemingly positioning itself favorably for the upcoming December 7 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections in the Sunyani East constituency, driven partly by the initiation of an eight-kilometre asphalt overlay project in Sunyani, the capital of the Bono Region. The initiative, which is being supervised by the Bono Regional Office of the Department of Urban Roads, commenced on October 29, 2024, in the bustling Central Business District (CBD). This infrastructure development is perceived as an essential move by the NPP, potentially improving their sentiment among constituents who have expressed dissatisfaction with the road conditions in the area.
Feedback gathered during visits to the CBD underscores a significant level of positivity among local drivers, shop owners, and traders towards the efforts undertaken by the government. Many expressed appreciation for President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s commitment to upgrading the region’s access roads. Commercial drivers, in particular, stated that the asphalt overlay project has not only inspired them but has also bolstered their confidence in the NPP. Their remarks highlighted a previous frustration with the deteriorating state of the roads, which they felt had negatively impacted the party’s popularity. The recent works have, however, rekindled hope that the current government is addressing these concerns.
The encouragement received from local stakeholders is pivotal, especially from those who had harbored skepticism about political promises. Stephen Asare, a storekeeper, noted that while he had reservations based on previous unfulfilled commitments, the tangible progress of the roadworks has led to renewed faith in Bawumia’s capabilities. His sentiments reflect a broader desire for politicians to deliver on their pledges, a recurring theme among constituents who have been disillusioned by unmet promises in the past. Conversely, Mad Joyce Amankwaa, a petty trader, critiqued the timing of the project, suggesting it should have been initiated earlier. Nonetheless, she remains a loyal NPP supporter, asserting that the project could enhance the party’s electoral prospects.
The asphalt overlay will not only improve road conditions but is also expected to invigorate economic activities within the CBD. Traders like Mr. Kofi Amponsah have highlighted the anticipated economic benefits, emphasizing how such infrastructure development is crucial for stimulating trade and business. The potential for increased accessibility could lead to greater consumer traffic, which is vital for local businesses. This sentiment is echoed by various community stakeholders who are optimistic the project will create a more conducive environment for commerce.
Mrs. Victoria Darkwa, the Bono Regional Director of the Department of Urban Roads, clarified that the asphalt overlay involves a total of 15 kilometres, with plans to extend the project to Odomase, the capital of the Sunyani West District. Her remarks serve to highlight the government’s broader commitment to improving rural infrastructure and ensuring that such initiatives are maintained across the region. She called on residents, traders, and commercial drivers to support the contractors, underscoring the collaborative effort required to realize this vision.
Ultimately, the asphalt overlay project in Sunyani is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it symbolizes the NPP’s broader electoral strategy as they gear up for the December elections. The positive feedback from the community suggests that if the government continues to address local grievances effectively, it may see an upsurge in voter support. Thus, the tangible development in the CBD has the potential to reshape the contours of political sentiment in the constituency, reaffirming the critical link between infrastructure development and electoral outcomes. The success of such initiatives could very well prove influential in determining the NPP’s fortunes in the upcoming elections.
