The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Tema West, Ludwig Teye Totimeh, has addressed concerns raised by residents whose buildings were recently demolished. Speaking in an interview with Citizen Kofi Owusu on Ahotor FM, Hon. Totimeh emphasized that the demolition exercise was conducted in full compliance with prior notices and legal procedures.
According to the MCE, affected residents had been given ample warnings over an extended period. “This was not a sudden action. We issued notices and cautioned them repeatedly to halt all forms of development. During our previous visit, we warned them about the illegality of their actions. Unfortunately, when we returned, the level of construction escalated far beyond the caution we had issued. Claims that there was no prior notice are completely false,” he stated.
Hon. Totimeh explained that the area in question is a Ramsar site—a designated wetland of international importance—which serves as a waterway and a natural reservation zone. He noted that construction in such areas is prohibited and that no permits are issued for development on Ramsar sites. “The buildings in these areas were constructed without permits because we can not and do not issue permits for construction on reserved sites,” he clarified.
He further stressed that demolition is not the preferred course of action. “Demolition is always the last resort in a series of steps. First, we issue warnings and provide advice to halt construction. We explain to developers why their actions are detrimental—not just to the environment, but also to their own safety. However, when these warnings are ignored, we are left with no choice but to act. No one takes joy in demolishing someone’s home. It is painful, but it is necessary to save lives and uphold the law.”
The MCE urged residents to adhere to development regulations and seek appropriate permits before embarking on construction projects. He also reiterated the importance of protecting Ramsar sites, highlighting their role in preserving the environment and preventing disasters such as flooding.
Hon. Totimeh concluded by calling on stakeholders to collaborate in ensuring sustainable development in Tema West, safeguarding both the environment and the lives of its residents.
Hon Ludwig Teye Totimeh added that this is a new administration they have promise the people of Ghana, in this case people of Tema West that they are resetting the municipality so this won’t be one day wonder, they have form taskforce who will go there periodically to go and monitor activities that are going on and they can assure that the building will not come on again, the taskforce will be on the ground periodically and constantly .
Again some of flooding situation are as a result of drainage issues and they have taken stock of all the problems and they are solving it as they go but for the ramsay site the action they have taken building house it affect even those who are not within the Ramsar enclave
Measures to Address Tema West’s Challenges
Hon. Ludwig Teye Totimeh has assured the people of Tema West that the current administration is committed to fulfilling its promises of resetting the municipality and ensuring sustainable development. Speaking on recent initiatives, he emphasized that these efforts are not intended to be a “one-day wonder” but part of a long-term strategy to address persistent challenges in the area.
To ensure accountability and continuous oversight, a dedicated task force has been formed. This team will periodically monitor activities in critical areas, particularly to prevent unauthorized construction projects. “We can confidently assure the people of Tema West that the controversial building will not resume,” Hon. Totimeh stated. He added that the task force will maintain a consistent presence on the ground to enforce compliance and oversee ongoing activities.
Addressing the broader issue of flooding in the municipality, Hon. Totimeh acknowledged that inadequate drainage systems have been a significant contributor. “We have taken stock of all the drainage-related problems and are working methodically to resolve them,” he said.
However, he highlighted a particularly pressing concern regarding the Ramsar site. Unauthorized developments in this ecologically sensitive area have not only disrupted the natural ecosystem but also negatively impacted residents outside the Ramsar enclave. The administration has taken decisive action against such developments, demonstrating its commitment to protecting both the environment and the interests of all citizens in the municipality.
Hon. Totimeh reaffirmed the administration’s determination to ensure that Tema West become a model municipality, blending environmental sustainability with infrastructural progress.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
