The Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West Constituency and Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has come under fire for allegedly claiming credit for a gutter construction project initiated and funded by the Church of Pentecost, Mpoasei District.
Residents in the Dansoman-Yellow House area, which often experiences severe flooding during the rainy season, have lauded the church’s effort to address the issue by spearheading the construction of the drainage system. However, some constituents have expressed outrage over the MP’s use of the project in her campaign, presenting it as a government initiative.
In an exclusive interview with Puretvonline.com, the district pastor of the Church of Pentecost, John Gilbert Ayamba, set the record straight, emphasising that the project is solely a church-driven initiative.
According to him, while the church consulted the MP before commencing the project, Hon. Ursula Owusu neither provided financial support nor played a significant role in its implementation.
Church’s Initiative for Flood Relief
Pastor Ayamba explained that the idea for the project was born out of necessity, as floods have consistently plagued the Dansoman-Yellow House to Glefe area. Determined to protect the community and church members from further suffering, the congregation decided to construct a gutter, budgeting a total cost of GHS 667,000 for the project.
“We informed Hon. Ursula Owusu about the initiative, and she commended us, even suggesting a partnership. She facilitated the release of some equipment from the municipal assembly, but beyond that, this is entirely a church-funded project,” Pastor Ayamba said.
Debunking Government Involvement
Contrary to claims circulating that the project is a government initiative or part of the MP’s developmental agenda, Pastor Ayamba reiterated that the church has received no external support. He expressed concern over attempts to politicise the project, urging for honesty and transparency.
“This is a community effort by the church. No government funds have been allocated, and it’s disheartening to see anyone trying to take undue credit for our work,” Pastor Ayamba stated.
The project, currently underway, is being financed through donations from church members. The pastor revealed that additional funds are still needed to complete the initiative and called on NGOs, individuals, and philanthropists to support their effort.
Appeal for Support
Pastor Ayamba encouraged the public to rally behind the church’s project to prevent future flooding in the area. Interested donors can reach out to the following individuals for more information or to provide financial assistance:
- Pastor Gilbert Ayamba: +233249309980
- Elder Samuel Aryeetey (District Secretary): +233276479787
- Elder Michael Quaye (Financial Chairman): +233244078958 / +233204678958
As the accusations continue to circulate, constituents and community leaders are calling for a clear distinction between the roles of government and private initiatives to ensure the integrity of developmental projects within the constituency.
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