Former Majority Leader and Suame MP, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, has called on the government to reconsider plans for a new expressway project and instead prioritise rail development and the completion of the Accra–Kumasi Highway.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, Mr Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu argued that many existing roads across the country are in a deplorable state and require urgent attention.

He cautioned that constructing an expressway through virgin lands could have serious consequences for food production and may also lead to huge compensation costs, potentially resulting in judgment debts against the state.

According to him, investing in rail infrastructure would be a more sustainable and cost-effective approach to national development.

“Our roads are deteriorating, and we can secure funding for contractors to fix them. We need to carefully consider the impact of the expressway on surrounding virgin areas, including its effects on food production and productivity,” he said.

“Additionally, we must determine how much compensation will be paid. There is also the risk of judgment debt. In my view, our priority should be the development of our rail network,” he added.