By Edzorna Francis Mensah
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has criticised the Volta River Authority for pumping surplus waters from the Akosombo dam without recourse to security implications, describing it as “unacceptable”.
“Unacceptable that an activity as potentially destructive as dam spillage was done without a well-thought-through security and safety preparedness plan,” the Speaker said in his remarks at the opening of the 3rd meeting of the 3rd session of the 8th parliament of the 4th Republic on Tuesday, October 31, 2023.
Welcoming MPs, he said, “As such, Parliament will take the necessary action to inquire into the matter and make recommendations for the protection of property and lives along the Volta River and lake and other settlements along river beds.”
“Today, we are confronted with the aftermath of the spillage of the Akosombo Dam by the VRA, which has plunged thousands of Ghanaians into destitution. The loss of property running into billions of Ghana cedis and the disruption of livelihoods have been devastating.”
On behalf of the House, the Speaker extended his deepest sympathy to those affected by this calamity.
“In moments like these, we are reminded of our responsibility as representatives of the people. We will advocate that adequate resources are provided to bring relief to the affected.”
