Amid the controversy surrounding the Komenda Sugar Factory, some concerned residents have served notice that they are planning to stage a massive demonstration in Accra against the government.
The initial demonstration was slated for Tuesday, 13th August 2024. However, the group says upon further deliberations and consultations, it has resolved to move the protest to Accra, the seat of government.
This turn of events the Komenda residents explain will help to maximize the impact of their protests.
Given the last-minute change of venue, the concerned residents are yet to announce the new date for the protest.
In a statement released by the group on Monday, the aggrieved residents explained that the protest was to register their displeasure over how the government has handled issues relating to the Komenda Sugar Factory.
Among other issues, the group says the decision and processes spearheaded by the government to lease the factory to an Indian Company did not comply with due processes. In addition, broader stakeholder engagement was disregarded.
They are also demanding that the government provide them with the needed assurances that their interest as stakeholders would be prioritized in addition to guarantees that will ensure the welfare of local sugarcane farmers.
“Following careful consideration and consultation with stakeholders, we have resolved to relocate our demonstration from Komenda to Accra. This strategic decision aims to amplify our voices, escalate our demands, and ensure that our concerns receive the attention they deserve at the highest level of government,” portions of the statement read.
The statement further explained that “we are compelled to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding the government’s handling of investment agreements, particularly the lack of transparency and consultation with local stakeholders. Commitments have been made to introduce new sugarcane varieties, develop new farmland, and support out-growers, which we have sought clarification on directly with investor representatives. However, we remain vigilant and demand direct government assurance and transparency to guarantee these commitments and ensure local sugarcane farmers benefit equitably.
The US$35 million project was commissioned under the administration of former President John Dramani Mahama in 2016. Since the commissioning, the facility has become a “white elephant” as it rots away.
After two years in office, President Akufo-Addo in 2018 announced that the government is in search of a strategic partner to invest in the factory due to operational challenges such as lack of raw sugarcane.
In November 2019, the government handed over the factory to an Indian company known as Park Aggrotech as a strategic partner. However, the residents of the Komenda believe that the lease agreement is shrouded in secrecy hence calling for transparency as well as the prioritization of their interests through the demonstration.
