A National Democratic Congress (NDC) communicator has pushed back against claims that Members of Parliament (MPs) in Ghana’s Upper East Region are underperforming, arguing that ongoing development projects demonstrate otherwise.
Speaking on Dreamz FM’s Breakfast Today program with host James Nana Tsiquaye, Michael Nangena said criticisms that NDC MPs are not delivering for the region are largely politically motivated and do not reflect realities on the ground.
“There’s no need to argue about something that is palpable,” Nangena said, adding that negative perceptions are often driven by opposition narratives seeking to “water down” government achievements.
The Upper East Region, considered an NDC stronghold, currently has 15 MPs from the party, with none from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). This dominance has heightened public expectations for development outcomes.
Mr Nangena acknowledged the high expectations but insisted MPs are delivering across sectors, particularly in education and water infrastructure. He cited projects in the Talensi and Bawku areas, including new dormitories, classroom blocks, teacher accommodations and boreholes.
According to him, Talensi MP Isaac Adongo is spearheading the expansion of facilities at the Sirigu community day school into a boarding institution, with additional infrastructure such as administration blocks, dining halls and staff housing.
“These are very huge projects… not just one or two blocks,” Mr Nangena said.
He also pointed to multiple teacher housing projects and science laboratory constructions across communities, arguing that such investments contradict claims of underperformance.
Mr Nangena further dismissed assertions that the region has been sidelined in national road development initiatives, including the government’s flagship “Big Push” infrastructure program. He said the initiative is designed to prioritize major inter-regional roads tied to economic productivity, particularly under the government’s 24-hour economy policy.
He added that some road projects in the region are being addressed through alternative funding arrangements and ongoing negotiations to resolve financing challenges inherited from previous administrations.
Critics have cited delays on key roads, including the Bolgatanga-Bawku corridor, as evidence of neglect. Mr Nangena, however, said government efforts are underway to restore funding and resume work.
“Some of these challenges are legal and financial, not about lack of commitment,” he said.
He urged residents to assess MPs based on visible projects in their constituencies rather than political rhetoric.
“Those who say MPs are not doing much should not be taken as gospel truth,” Mr Nangena said. “People can see what is happening in their communities.”
