Following President Akufo-Addo’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Volta Regional branch of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) led by its Communications Director, Kafui Agbleze, has condemned what they call a glaring omission of the plight faced by flood disaster victims.

The address, which outlined the country's current state and plans for the future, failed to address the pressing concerns of those affected by recent floods in the region.

Agbleze, speaking on behalf of the Volta NDC, expressed disappointment in the President's silence on the devastating impact of the floods that have wreaked havoc on communities in the Volta Region. He lamented the absence of any substantial mention or concrete plans to address the needs of the affected individuals and communities.

"The silence of the President on such a critical issue affecting our people is not just disappointing but deeply concerning," remarked Agbleze during a press briefing held immediately after the SONA. "We were eagerly awaiting reassurances and plans from the government to support those who have lost homes, livelihoods, and loved ones due to the recent floods."

The Communications Director highlighted the dire situation on the ground, emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention. He cited instances of families displaced, homes destroyed, and communities struggling to cope with the aftermath of the natural disaster.

The address was the most disappointing for the people in the Volta Region who were glued to their radio and TV sets in serious anticipation of a relieving update on the several promises earlier made toward alleviating their predicaments following the disaster.

"The people were actually expecting to hear something about the disbursement of the GH¢220 million allocated in the 2024 budget to support the affected communities, the funds from the World Bank under the IDA Crisis Response Window (CRW) to support the resettlement of the victims, restoration of livelihoods, compensation and reconstruction of infrastructure in the affected communities"he noted.

"We cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of our people," Agbleze reiterated.

"The President's failure to acknowledge this crisis in his address speaks volumes about the priorities of this administration."

Volta NDC has called on the government to swiftly mobilize resources, provide relief aid, and implement long-term strategies to prevent future disasters. Agbleze stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach that involves community engagement, infrastructure development, and sustainable environmental policies.

"We stand in solidarity with the flood victims, and we will continue to advocate for their rights and wellbeing," Agbleze affirmed, ending the briefing with a strong message urging the government to act decisively.

The statement said it is deeply regrettable that amidst these precarious challenges, the President chose not to acknowledge or offer solutions to alleviate the suffering of fellow citizens, adding that the absence of any mention of relief efforts or plans to mitigate the effects of the disaster in the 31-page SONA is a glaring oversight that reflects a deliberate lack of empathy and commitment to the well-being of these countrymen.

"What is equally displeasing is the President's mention of a non-existent project like the Keta Fish Landing Site on page 22 of his presentation. We want to once again put on record that there is no such project in Keta or any other place in the Volta Region. The President should learn to insulate himself from always being misled by doing due diligence in getting accurate information on such crucial matters.”

The Volta NDC according to the statement, strongly requests the President to urgently address this issue and prioritize the needs of those affected by the flood disaster and tidal waves.
“We demand immediate action to provide relief aid, rehabilitate affected communities, and implement sustainable measures to prevent future occurrences.

"In fulfilling the constitutional obligation to address the nation, it is imperative that the President demonstrates leadership by acknowledging and responding to the pressing concerns of all citizens, irrespective of tribe, location or voting pattern."

The condemnation from the Volta NDC comes amidst growing calls for accountability and action regarding the country's response to natural disasters.

As communities in the Volta Region grapple with the aftermath of the floods, all eyes are now on the government to deliver on its promises of support and relief for those in need.