The District Chief Executive (DCE) of the Guan District, Mr. Godfred Koku Kofie, has dismissed speculations of a strained relationship with the Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Hon. Fred Agbenyo, describing them as baseless and politically motivated.
Mr. Kofie addressed the matter after appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Local Government and Rural Development, which is currently considering the Annual Audit Statements of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). The exercise began on Monday, September 15, 2025, and is expected to end on Friday, September 26, 2025.
“I was surprised when it was alleged that I had a problem with my Member of Parliament. When he contested for the parliamentary position, we worked together and won. He even supported me to become DCE,” Mr. Kofie said.
“People may concoct stories, but I have no intention of contesting him. This is his first term; why can’t we allow him a second term to learn and deliver? I am ready to support him, and he is ready to support me.”
Development Priorities
The DCE outlined several ongoing and upcoming projects aimed at addressing the district’s pressing needs. He noted that Guan, one of Ghana’s newest districts, faces significant developmental challenges but has started making progress under the current administration.
Key initiatives include:
24-Hour Market Project – Acquisition of land and construction of markets in Likpe Bakwa, Akpafu Mimpasem, and Lolobi Kumasi.
Healthcare Infrastructure – Construction of CHPS compounds in underserved communities such as Likpe Nkwanta, Lolobi, and Ashambi.
Water Supply Projects – Provision of potable water to communities facing seasonal water shortages, including Likpe Elavanyo, Likpe Koforidua, and Likpe Avedzime.
Mr. Kofie credited President John Dramani Mahama’s government for disbursing the District Assemblies Common Fund, which is enabling these interventions.
Revenue Mobilization Challenges
He admitted that revenue mobilization remains a major challenge due to the low purchasing power of residents.
“You come to a community where a trader returns home without selling anything, yet we expect them to pay rates. It is difficult,” he noted.
To address this, the Assembly is building a database of businesses and property owners to improve tracking and compliance while educating residents on the importance of paying rates to fund development.
Lessons from Parliamentary Appearance
Reflecting on his engagement with the Parliamentary Committee, Mr. Kofie said the experience had been insightful.
“This is my first time appearing before the Committee. The questions and feedback have exposed me to so many things that will guide my next appearance,” he said.
He also called for the deployment of qualified personnel to the district, emphasizing that Guan’s status as a new district requires competent staff to accelerate growth.
