Former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed his support for the creation of a new region from the Upper East Region if he is elected in the upcoming general elections.
Mahama made this announcement during a visit to the Bawku Naba’s palace in the Upper East Region, where he discussed the proposal that has been submitted to the Speaker of Parliament.
The proposal, initiated by Bawku’s Member of Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, aims to address ongoing security issues and enhance development in the area.
Mahama highlighted the significance of the proposal, noting that the land size and population of the Bawku area are comparable to or even greater than those of the North East Region, which justifies the demand for a new administrative region.
He stressed that the creation of a new region would help decentralize governance, making it more accessible to the people, while also focusing on improving security, particularly in the Bawku area, which has been marked as a special security zone due to its recent unrest.
“Bawku Naba raised it with me, and I told him in principle I think it’s a good idea for two reasons. One, for the reason of bringing government closer to the people,” Mahama stated.
He further added, “The criteria are dependent on population, land size, and economic viability.”
Mahama’s endorsement is expected to gain traction among local leaders and residents, who see the proposal as a potential catalyst for growth and stability in the region.
