STCCI engages political parties on Manifesto
Takoradi, Dec. 6, GNA -The Sekondi-Takoradi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (STCCI) has engaged some political parties on the findings of the « Western Region’s Manifesto. »
The Manifesto is a document compiled after a survey conducted by the STCCI and the Research Department of the Takoradi Technical University (TTU) with support from the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce, sequa gGmbH Partner of German Business and German Co-operation in the 14 districts of the Region.
The survey was to find out what entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises, companies as well as individuals expected from the government with regard to a conducive business environment to ensure that development thrives in the Region.
It was also to give credence to the real needs of the people of the Region and to help any of the political parties, which come into power in 2021 in meeting the development aspirations of the Region.
The Chief Executive Officer of STCCI, Mr. Vincent Annan, addressing a cross-section of the business community and political party leadership in the Western Region, explained that political parties that get the opportunity to run the government determined their own policies, which in most cases did not reflect the aspirations of the people.
According to him, the Western Region Manifesto is, therefore, to establish the true aspirations of the people for government actions.
The findings of the manifesto include the need for disability friendly spaces for the physically challenged in public places, gender empowerment with emphasis on women and the vulnerable, and road infrastructure.
Mr Benjamin Nii Kpani Addo, Deputy CEO of STCCI, noted that the government should take urgent steps to address business regulatory and institutional issues to empower businesses.
“Businesses also perceive the judiciary, generally, not to swiftly enforce contracts when breached as well as slow in the delivery of justice, » he added
He stressed the need for judicial reforms as well as improving access to basic social services such as roads, sanitation and health facilities among others.
The STCCI later presented copies of the Manifesto to the executives and members of the NDC and NPP for possible implementation in year 2021 and beyond.
Mr Japheth Baidoo, Western Regional Organizer of the NDC, commended STCCI for the survey.
He said, “If you check in our manifesto, we have devoted time to expand road infrastructure, when given the nod come January 7 to govern this country ».
Mr Baidoo said the Manifesto presented a good guide for more coordinated actions.
Mr. Benedict Addae, the Western Regional Youth Organizer of NPP, said most of the findings were being implemented by the government, especially on education.
“Though we have our manifesto, if we should come to power in 2021, we will implement some of these findings and do more” he added.
President of STCCI, Mr Eugene Ofori-Atta urged the various political parties to ensure peaceful election.
Ato Van Ess, Chairman of STCCI, prayed for a peaceful election and urged the media to come out with a good reportage during and after the election.
GNA
