The Commission of Inquiry, tasked with assessing the need for the creation of the Bono East Region from the existing Brong Ahafo Region, has concluded its public hearings in Techiman. These hearings allowed the Commission to gather input from local chiefs, residents, and workers on the proposed region’s development needs.
Key concerns raised during the hearings included underdevelopment, security issues, and perceived discrimination, particularly regarding the region’s location in the “far East.” The people cited poor road networks, lack of access to clean water, inadequate electricity, and insufficient educational facilities as major barriers to progress. They argued that creating the Bono East Region would help foster more focused development.
Health infrastructure was another major issue, with the only government hospital in the region, Kintampo Hospital, lacking essential facilities. Many residents rely on religious institution-run hospitals for their healthcare needs. Local chiefs also pointed out that government workers are reluctant to accept postings to the area due to its underdevelopment and poor amenities.
Justice Stephen Alan Brobbey, Chairman of the Commission, described the hearings as historic. He emphasized that the Commission is reviewing petitions from multiple regions, including Bono East, and would consider a referendum if the creation of a new region is recommended.
Brong Ahafo Regional Minister, Mr. Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh, stated that the proposed region’s creation would bring governance and development closer to the people. He urged the public to support the initiative ahead of the referendum. The President of the Brong Ahafo Regional House of Chiefs, Pimapim Yaw Kabrese V, also supported the creation of Bono East, calling for an end to debates over the region’s capital location.
Traditional leaders like Oseadeyo Akumfi Ameyaw IV of Techiman and Nana Osei Gyan Ababio of Atebubu emphasized that the current size of the Brong Ahafo Region made governance difficult and led to uneven development. They strongly advocated for the creation of Bono East to address these issues.
In the final public forum, residents expressed frustration over marginalization and the distance to the regional capital, Sunyani. Many participants, including schoolchildren, showed their support for the creation of Bono East, which would include districts such as Techiman, Nkoranza, Kintampo, and Atebubu-Amantin.
