In a recent development, the issue of non-payment of compensation to landowners in the Ejisu Traditional area has resurfaced, nineteen years after the government allegedly acquired 1,099 acres of land. This ongoing concern has raised significant questions about the acquisition process and the subsequent agreements made between the Ghana Free Zones Authority (FZA) and the Ejisu Traditional Council.
Back in 2008, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the FZA and the Ejisu Traditional Council, representing various stools, following the government's acquisition of land in the area. This was further solidified with a lease agreement in January 2022. The FZA claims to have committed close to GH¢300,000 in the acquisition process, with payments made to sitting farmers, occupants, the Omanhene of Ejisu Traditional Area, and a private surveyor contracted by the Ejisuhene.
These agreements and payments have encumbered the land intended for a Special Economic Zone area under the regulation of the Free Zones Authority. The aim was to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs and contribute to the growth of Ghana's economy.
However, a committee representing landowners from various areas within the Ejisu Traditional area has raised concerns about the lack of compensation. They have even threatened to take over their lands for personal gain. The chief of Adadientem, Nana Adom Puni II, has collaborated with these claims and denied being part of the lease agreement signed between the FZA and the Ejisu Traditional Council. He emphasized that no compensation has been paid for his 9.87 acres of land and raised doubts about the authenticity of the lease agreement.
Moreover, Nana Puni has reported this issue to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, seeking intervention to ensure that all landowners claiming ownership receive due compensation for the takeoff of the Greater Kumasi Industrial Park.
This ongoing dispute raises critical questions about the transparency and fairness of land acquisition processes and the subsequent compensation for affected landowners. It is imperative for all involved parties to engage in constructive dialogue and adhere to legal and ethical standards to resolve this matter effectively.
The resolution of this issue is crucial not only for the affected landowners but also for the successful establishment of the Greater Kumasi Industrial Park and the overall economic development of the region. It is essential for all stakeholders to work together towards a mutually beneficial resolution that upholds the rights of landowners while also supporting economic growth and development initiatives.
-source thechronicle | curated by Neizer Gyamfi | Ghana Crimes
