By: Elikplim K. Awuyeh
THE MUNICIPAL Chief Executive (MCE) of Ayawaso Central Municipal Assembly, Hon. Rudolph Collingwood Williams, has strongly criticised some residents of the municipality for frustrating development efforts.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement session on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Kotobabi, the MCE said, “We are our own enemies when it comes to development.” His comments were directed at groups including artisans, market women, transport operators, traditional leaders, and youth, who had gathered as part of a public hearing on the municipality’s Medium-Term Development Plan.
According to Hon. Williams, although public involvement is key to effective development planning, as directed by the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC), some residents act in ways that directly undermine progress.
The engagement identified persistent challenges such as:
– Erection of kiosks and containers in unauthorized areas
– Mechanics turning public roads into workshops, damaging newly constructed roads
– Improper disposal of waste
– Buildings on waterways and other unauthorized structures.
And based on these challenges, the Hon. MCE lamented that when authorities attempt to take action, respected figures in the community—such as chiefs and imams—often intervene to stop enforcement efforts. “These actions stall the very development people demand,” he stressed.
While he acknowledged the impressive turnout and interest shown by stakeholders at the forum, the MCE warned that the Assembly would no longer tolerate behavior that blocks progress.
“Going forward, we will use legal force where necessary to clear such obstructions so that the municipality can develop as planned,” he stated firmly—an announcement that was met with applause from many participants.
The stakeholder engagement is part of the Assembly’s preparations for the next Medium-Term Development Plan (2026–2029), in line with NDPC guidelines to ensure inclusive and people-centered planning.
The MCE urged all residents to support the Assembly’s efforts and embrace discipline for the sake of long-term development and improved quality of life.
Source: Nationaltymes.com
