It's time for MPs to initiate development projects - David Asante

The Managing Director of Ghana Publishing Company, David Asante wants parliamentarians to refrain from relying solely on development projects initiated by the government for their constituents.

He thinks it is about time MPs initiated development projects on their own to complement what central government brings to the constituents.

Speaking on Ekosii Sen on Asempa FM, David Asante said even though the 1992 Constitution does not state that MPs are responsible for development projects in their constituencies, the role has gradually shifted to be a part of their job description and must therefore be executed with all seriousness.

According to David Asante, “If you take a critical look at the constitution, it clearly stipulates that developmental projects must be done by Municipal and District Chief Executives and the core mandate of MPs is to exercise an oversight role over the other arms of government and state institutions to ensure maximum accountability. But things have evolved and so MPs must adjust to the change.

“The constitution states that MPs must exercise an oversight responsibility over the executive and other arms of government. It did not state that MPs are responsible for developments in the constituencies, however, this has become part of the job and constituents expect that MPs implement projects to develop their constituencies”.

David Asante who is aspiring to lead the NPP as the parliamentary candidate for Nkawkaw constituency in the Eastern region said a good MP is the one with the ability to move developments into his constituency through his/her own initiatives.

The aspirant said it is therefore important to vote for someone who is socially connected to influential people so that the person can use his connections in and outside the country to lobby for projects for his constituency.

He explained that even though the President will ensure that each constituency gets its fair share of developments, it is certain the development from government will not be enough for every constituency.

“The people are interested in development. The President will send development to every constituency to reflect the good deeds of his office however as an MP you must bring in development by activating your social contacts who can support you in developing your constituency”, he advised.

Mr. David Asante further advised his colleague aspirants not to make unachievable campaign promises that they know deeply in their hearts that they are unachievable.