Voters in the Bortianor-Ngleshie Amanfro Constituency in the Greater Accra Region are urging parliamentary candidates to address pressing issues, including the rehabilitation of deteriorated roads such as the Aplaku-Bortianor stretch, the establishment of a fish market, and tackling youth unemployment.
Many residents expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the incumbent Member of Parliament, Sylvester Tetteh of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), citing his inability to address these concerns. This sentiment emerged when Channel One News engaged with residents to learn about their expectations ahead of the December 7, General Election.
A primary concern for residents is the poor state of the constituency’s roads. Rose Dumevi, a resident from Aplaku, highlighted the need to replace malfunctioning solar panels meant for streetlights in the area.
“Initially, we didn’t have streetlights, but recently, we have finally received our share. We believed that solar lights would have been a good solution, especially when the lights went out,” she stated.
The Bortianor-Ngleshie-Amanfro Constituency lies on the outskirts of the Greater Accra Region, bordering Kasoa in the Central Region. It was established in 2012 and falls under the Ga South Municipality.
With a voter population of 111,000 recorded in the 2020 elections, the constituency faces significant developmental challenges. Its borders include the Weija-Gbawe Constituency to the southwest and Domeabra-Obom to the north.
Key areas in the coastal constituency include Aplaku, Bortianor, Oshiyie, Kokrobite, Tuba, and parts of Weija. The local population comprises a mix of formal and informal workers, such as fishermen, commercial drivers, civil servants, and public officials.
During interactions with fishermen in Bortianor, the absence of a dedicated fish market emerged as a significant concern.
“The most urgent need right now is the lack of a fish market. The fishermen would also like to see a reduction in the cost of operations. Additionally, the absence of a fish market makes it even more difficult to sell our catch,” a resident stated.
“Our main issue is the lack of a shed and a fish market here. Our customers face difficulties when they come to buy fish because there is no shelter for them. We know elections are approaching, but something needs to be done for us,” another added.
Since its creation, the constituency has alternated between the NPP and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), making it a swing seat in national elections. In 2020, Sylvester Tetteh won the parliamentary seat for the NPP, becoming the third MP to represent the area. Residents expressed varying views on the prospects of the different parliamentary candidates.
A resident said “We face numerous challenges in this constituency, but thanks to God, we have someone capable of addressing these issues. I am referring to Honourable Sylvester Tetteh. This road, in particular, used to be in a very deplorable state, but thanks to Sylvester Tetteh, it is now being rehabilitated.
His contribution has been invaluable to this constituency, especially when compared to other MPs. He has accomplished a great deal, including the establishment of Bortianor Senior High School. His efforts in revitalising this road are just one example of his impact. Should we not vote for someone who has such a remarkable legacy, including building a school?”
“I am determined not to vote for the NPP. This time, I will vote for the NDC. I didn’t vote in the last elections, but this time, I am committed to supporting the NDC,” said another
Sylvester Tetteh, seeking re-election on the NPP ticket, has touted his achievements, including the establishment of the Bortianor Senior High School. He appealed to voters to grant him another term to complete ongoing projects.
Meanwhile, the NDC parliamentary candidate, Felix Akwetey Okle, pledged to prioritise infrastructural development, focusing on road and drainage improvements throughout the constituency.
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By: Daniel Oduro -Mensah
