President Mahama pledges tough action on illegal structures, reckless driving during Eid
President John Dramani Mahama has vowed to crack down on illegal structures obstructing water channels, blaming the practice for recurrent flooding and widespread destruction of property.
Speaking at Eid-ul-Fitr prayers on Monday, March 31, Mahama warned that all unauthorised structures built in waterways would be demolished, with offenders facing legal action.
“We cannot allow a few selfish individuals to endanger the lives and livelihoods of countless others. The law will be enforced,” he declared.
He expressed deep concern over reports of private businesses colluding with some chiefs to develop water retention areas, calling the practice reckless and a severe threat to public safety. With the rainy season approaching, Mahama called for urgent, collective action to mitigate preventable disasters.
Crackdown on reckless driving
Mahama also addressed concerns over road safety during the Eid celebrations, warning against reckless driving and motorbike riding, which have previously resulted in tragic accidents.
“No one must die as a result of reckless celebration. I have asked the police to be on high alert, and anyone caught endangering lives will be arrested,” he stated.
He urged young people to celebrate responsibly, stressing that the joy of the occasion should not be overshadowed by preventable loss of life.
Empowering Muslim communities
Mahama commended Ghana’s Muslim communities for their contributions to national development, particularly in education, business, and governance. However, he stressed the need for further investment to ensure balanced progress.
“We must invest in quality education for our children, improve healthcare facilities, and create opportunities that will help our youth achieve their full potential,” he noted.
Encouraging Muslim youth to prioritise education, he added, “Islam teaches us that seeking knowledge is a lifelong duty for every Muslim.”
Social responsibility
Underscoring the role of charity in Islam, Mahama urged Ghanaians to extend kindness to orphans, widows, and the elderly.
He called on Muslims to continue their acts of generosity beyond Ramadan, describing charity as both an Islamic and national responsibility.
“True wealth is not measured by how much we accumulate, but by how much we give to help those in need. Let us reach out to those who are struggling,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to national development, Mahama assured Ghanaians that his leadership would prioritise education, healthcare, job creation, and infrastructure.
He praised the introduction of an additional public holiday to accommodate all Muslim denominations during Eid prayers, noting its success in fostering inclusivity.
“My promises are not just words. They represent a solemn commitment to enhance the lives of every Ghanaian, irrespective of background or faith,” he stated.
