Asante Youth Association accuses regional MPs of neglecting development,calls on chief to intervene

The Asante Youth Association (AYA) has launched a scathing attack on Members of Parliament from the Ashanti Region, accusing them of prioritising political survival over the urgent development needs of their constituents.

In a media interview on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the group’s General Secretary, Tweneboa Kodua, expressed frustration over what he described as a growing disconnect between the region’s legislators and the youth they are meant to serve.

“All they care about is their political survival. Development of the region has clearly taken a back seat,” Mr Kodua said on Otec FM.

Fragmented Leadership and Lack of Collaboration

According to the AYA, Ashanti MPs lack the kind of unified front seen in other regions such as the Eastern, Volta and Oti, where lawmakers reportedly meet regularly to strategise on development. Mr Kodua argued that this fragmentation has left the region without a coherent vision for progress.

He further alleged that many MPs are preoccupied with securing parliamentary and presidential votes, while critical issues such as job creation and infrastructure development are ignored.

“With collapsing factories and non-existent job opportunities, the youth are being left behind,” he said.

Stalled Projects Undermining Regional Economy

The Association pointed to several high-profile projects that remain incomplete, arguing that their stagnation is stifling economic growth across the region. These include:

· Boankra Inland Port – minimal progress despite its strategic importance for trade
· Suame Interchange – stalled, worsening traffic congestion in Kumasi
· KATH Maternity Block – delayed, affecting maternal and child healthcare
· Krofrom Market – incomplete, hampering local commerce

Appeal to Traditional Authorities

Disappointed by what he termed a lack of political will, Mr Kodua called on Ashanti chiefs and traditional leaders to step in. He urged them to use their influence to hold politicians accountable, attract private sector investment, and champion the completion of abandoned projects.

“The traditional leadership must help restore hope for a struggling workforce,” he said.

The AYA’s remarks come amid growing youth discontent over unemployment and underdevelopment in the Ashanti Region, a political stronghold with high expectations of its elected representatives.

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