Former Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei-Mensah has strongly denied allegations that he deliberately allowed the Presidential Villa and Regional Minister’s Bungalow at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) to fall into disrepair.
The claims, brought forward by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), suggest that the properties were neglected during Osei-Mensah’s eight-year tenure, leaving them overrun with weeds and infested with reptiles.
In a press release dated Monday, January 13, Osei-Mensah addressed these accusations, stating that he inherited significant challenges upon assuming office on February 22, 2017.
These included massive debts, dilapidated state-owned buildings, and obsolete office equipment. He emphasised that despite limited resources, he took steps to stabilise operations at the ARCC, personally financing some activities until funds became available.
The former minister clarified that efforts to renovate the Presidential Villa and other structures were hampered by budgetary constraints, with only a fraction of the GH¢6 million approved for refurbishment being disbursed.
“It was never an intentional neglect of state property. We made strides where resources permitted,” he stated.
Osei-Mensah also highlighted key initiatives, including the replacement of outdated office equipment, renovation of the administrative block, and construction of new staff accommodation.
