“Fix Kumasi-Accra Highway Now or Face Protest” – Concerned Youth Warn Government After Fatal Crash

The Coalition of Concerned Youth has issued a passionate call to the government, demanding urgent rehabilitation of the Kumasi-Accra highway following a recent tragic accident that claimed several lives. In a press release, the group extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of fatal accidents on the highway, which they attribute largely to its deteriorating condition.

The Executive Director of the coalition, Mr. Richard Mensah, speaking to the press, lamented the frequency with which lives are lost on the highway. He emphasized that the road, which links two of Ghana’s major cities, has become a death trap due to years of neglect, poor maintenance, and pothole-ridden surfaces. According to him, the most recent accident is only one of many that have left families shattered, breadwinners dead, and children orphaned.

“The Kumasi-Accra highway has claimed too many innocent lives. This road is no longer safe for travelers, and the situation is simply unacceptable,” Mr. Mensah stated. “We cannot continue to lose our brothers, sisters, and parents because authorities have failed to prioritize our safety. The bloodshed on this road must stop.”

The coalition cited road safety statistics that show a strong correlation between poor road conditions and high accident rates, particularly on the Kumasi-Accra stretch. They argue that while the government spends money on other projects, the neglect of one of the country’s most vital transport corridors is both dangerous and inexcusable.

In their statement, the youth group gave a two-month ultimatum to the government to commence visible and effective maintenance works on the highway. They warned that failure to do so would compel them to take drastic action, including the possible blockade of the road to draw national attention to their concerns.

“We are not calling for war, but we are ready to rise up in protest if nothing is done. We have waited long enough. Our patience is running out. If by the end of the two-month period no work has begun, we will occupy the highway. We will not sit idly by as more lives are lost,” Mr. Mensah declared.

The Coalition of Concerned Youth is calling on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Parliament, and all relevant stakeholders to act immediately. They also appealed to traditional leaders, civil society organizations, religious bodies, and fellow youth groups to join them in this cause, emphasizing that the safety of citizens must be placed above politics and bureaucracy.

“The time to act is now. Every day we delay, another life is at risk. The government must listen to the cries of its people,” the group added.

For further details, the public is encouraged to contact the Executive Director of the Coalition of Concerned Youth, Richard Mensah, on 0257477677 / 0200262790.