DBI MP Denies Involvement in GES Project Relocation Amid District Tensions

Honorable Dr. Sebastian Sandaare - Member of Parliament for the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa Constituency

Honorable Dr. Sebastian Sandaare, The Member of Parliament for the Daffiama-Bussie-Issa Constituency, has categorically denied any involvement in the controversial relocation of key Ghana Education Service (GES) projects from Issa to Daffiama.

In an exclusive interview on the "Zienyaanye Upper West" program on Info Radio Thursday morning, Dr. Sandaare clarified that he has no hand in the decision to move the district office and Teachers Bungalow funded by GETFUND. "I was not consulted, nor did I initiate or influence the relocation," he stated, emphasizing that the current district education office remains in Daffiama and that any other projects could be appropriately situated by relevant authorities.

The denial comes amidst mounting tensions between communities in the district. Chiefs and residents of Issa have accused the MP of masterminding the move, which they argue undermines decades of administrative stability. On Tuesday, the Issa Traditional Council publicly condemned the decision, describing it as unlawful and a threat to peace and development in the district.

At a press conference on March 11, 2026, Naa Yelekuang Bawele II, Paramount Chief of the Issa Traditional Council, expressed deep concern over what they termed an "illegal diversion" of development resources. He highlighted that the project, originally tendered to be located in Issa—the district’s administrative hub since 2012—was being redirected to Daffiama without proper consultation or adherence to the law.

Citing the Local Government Act, 2016 (Act 936), the council argued that essential administrative offices must remain within the district capital to facilitate effective governance and service delivery. “This sudden change not only violates legal provisions but also risks inciting conflict between Issa and Daffiama,” the statement warned. The council called on President Nana Akufo-Addo, the Regional Minister, GETFUND officials, and the MP to reverse the decision and uphold the original plans.

The chiefs further warned that relocating the office would impose operational challenges, including increased travel time and costs for district officials, thereby hampering development efforts. They emphasized that maintaining the project in Issa is crucial for ensuring equitable growth and preserving peace within the district.

In response, the MP maintained that the relocation was not under his influence and stressed the importance of following proper procedures. The traditional council has also advised the contractor to halt construction activities until the dispute is resolved legally.

As the debate intensifies, community leaders and stakeholders are calling for urgent intervention to uphold lawful planning and ensure that district development remains balanced and peaceful. The issue continues to evoke strong sentiments, with many stressing that the future of district harmony hinges on transparent and lawful decision-making.