The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has directed the immediate demolition of all unauthorised structures located behind the COCOBOD building at Asafo in the Kumasi Metropolis as part of efforts to enforce planning regulations and restore order in the city.
The directive was announced during a meeting with Regional Heads of Department organised by the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC), where the minister stressed that the government would no longer tolerate illegal developments that undermine urban planning and public safety.
According to Dr. Amoakohene, investigations conducted by the relevant authorities confirmed that none of the occupants of the structures possesses valid building or development permits, making the buildings illegal under existing planning laws.
Responding to concerns from sections of the public over why the structures were allowed to be erected in the first place, the minister acknowledged that some of the buildings have existed for nearly eight years.
However, he explained that the current government’s “reset” agenda requires decisive action to correct past lapses in enforcement.
Dr. Amoakohene noted that although previous administrations may have failed to stop the illegal developments at an earlier stage, the Regional Coordinating Council is determined to address the issue without delay.
The minister also reaffirmed the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council’s commitment to removing all structures built on waterways across the region.
He said such developments continue to obstruct the natural flow of water, increasing the risk of flooding, particularly during the rainy season.
Authorities have in recent months intensified efforts to reclaim waterways and public lands in several parts of Kumasi as part of broader measures to improve sanitation, strengthen urban planning and reduce the impact of flooding.
Dr. Amoakohene urged residents and developers to obtain the necessary approvals before putting up any structure, warning that buildings constructed without permits or on unauthorised land will face demolition regardless of how long they have existed.
