Former Roads Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye has clarified his position on a major highway project. He insists his concerns were always about responsible spending. He was not opposing the planned Accra-Kumasi Expressway. His statement responds to recent accusations from Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
The Finance Minister claimed Asenso-Boakye advised canceling the expressway. He allegedly called the project unnecessary and wasteful. Asenso-Boakye strongly dismissed this claim in a media address. He called the minister’s interpretation both inaccurate and unfair.
The Bantama MP explained his letter to former President Mahama. He wrote it to advocate for prudent financial management. His note highlighted key technical and practical concerns. He stressed the need to finish current projects first.
He specifically referred to the ongoing Accra-Kumasi dualisation project. This upgrade has reached sixty-four percent completion. Abandoning it now would waste a massive prior investment. Ghana’s limited budget makes this duplication unwise.
Asenso-Boakye noted the corridor’s long development history. Work began under former President Kufuor’s administration. Major sections were built during that time. Progress stalled under subsequent governments before revival.
President Akufo-Addo’s government later resumed the dualisation work. The former minister urged continuing this existing plan. His primary goal was protecting national resources. He wanted to ensure real value for public money.
He argued for completing the upgraded highway before starting a new expressway. This approach avoids inefficient spending. It also delivers finished roads to citizens faster. His position focuses on strategic infrastructure planning.
The debate highlights tensions over Ghana’s development priorities. Limited funds force difficult choices between projects. Asenso-Boakye’s clarification seeks to correct the record. He reaffirms his commitment to fiscal responsibility.
