The MP argues that this policy will hinder local road development and increase operational inefficiencies.
The DRIP initiative was designed to empower Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) by providing them with vital equipment like bulldozers, motor graders, concrete mixers, and tipper trucks to improve local road infrastructure.
Launched by former President Akufo-Addo in July 2024, the program sought to decentralize resources and enable swift responses to local road maintenance needs.
However, President Mahama announced on February 27, 2025, that these machines would be reorganized into regional mobile maintenance units to handle emergency roadworks. This move, according to the Suhum MP, undermines the original purpose of the program.
Bekoe warned that centralizing the equipment will lead to delays and increased costs. “If the machines are there and they are not being used, they will get spoilt easily, and even the cost of maintaining them and buying spare parts will cost the state more,” he said.
He also questioned the rationale behind the policy, suggesting it reflects a lack of trust in the district engineers and local authorities.
“Why are you going to lump them in Koforidua? Every district has its own machines,” Bekoe added.
The MP called for the immediate reversal of the policy, emphasizing the importance of keeping resources close to the communities they are meant to serve.