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UNIDENTIFIED YOUTH GROUP VANDALISES MCE’S PRIVATE BUILDING AT KETA**

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**Unidentified Youth Group Vandalises MCE’s Private Building at Keta**  


Tensions flared in the Keta Municipality of the Volta Region as an unidentified youth group vandalised a private building belonging to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Emmanuel Gemegah. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, has left residents shocked and concerned about rising tensions in the area.  


The group, reportedly numbering over a dozen, descended on the property and caused significant damage, including smashing windows, breaking doors, and defacing walls. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as the group carried out their actions without restraint.  


### **Alleged Cause of the Attack**  


Although the motives of the youth group remain unclear, preliminary reports suggest that the incident may be linked to growing discontent over perceived grievances in the municipality. Sources indicate that some residents are dissatisfied with the MCE’s handling of certain developmental projects and his alleged lack of engagement with the community.  


A resident who wished to remain anonymous stated, “There have been simmering tensions in Keta over unfulfilled promises and perceived favoritism in the allocation of resources. This incident might be an expression of that frustration.”  


Other speculations point to political undertones, with some attributing the attack to rival factions within the local political scene.  


### **The MCE Reacts**  


In a brief statement, MCE Emmanuel Gemegah condemned the attack, describing it as an act of lawlessness and a threat to peace in the municipality.  


“I am deeply saddened by this attack on my private property. It is unacceptable for anyone to resort to violence to express grievances. This behavior undermines the peace and development we all seek for Keta,” he said.  


The MCE called on the security agencies to investigate the incident thoroughly and bring the perpetrators to justice. He also urged residents to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions further.  


### **Police Investigation Underway**  


The Keta Divisional Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident. Speaking to the media, the Keta Police Commander, DSP George Eyiah, assured residents that the authorities are working tirelessly to identify and apprehend the culprits.  


“We have commenced investigations and will ensure that those responsible for this act face the full rigors of the law. We urge residents to provide any information that could aid our efforts,” DSP Eyiah stated.  


The police have also increased patrols in the area to prevent any potential retaliatory actions and maintain peace.  


### **Community Reaction**  


The attack has drawn mixed reactions from residents and stakeholders in the municipality. While some have condemned the act as lawless and counterproductive, others see it as a reflection of the frustrations felt by certain groups within the community.  


“This kind of action is not the way to address issues. It only worsens the situation and damages the reputation of our community,” said a local teacher.  


However, another resident expressed a different view, stating, “The youth are angry because they feel neglected. They have tried to voice their concerns peacefully, but no one listens. This is the result.”  


Traditional authorities and opinion leaders in Keta have also expressed concern over the incident. They have called for dialogue between the MCE and the youth to address the underlying issues and restore harmony.  


### **Calls for Calm and Dialogue**  


Civil society organizations and local leaders have joined the call for calm, urging all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve grievances.  


The Executive Director of the Volta Development Forum, Selorm Agbo, emphasized the need for communication and transparency in addressing community concerns.  


“Violence is never the answer. We need to create platforms for dialogue where everyone’s voice can be heard. Leaders must also ensure accountability and responsiveness to the needs of the people,” Agbo said.  


### **A Pattern of Discontent?**  


This incident adds to a growing list of youth unrest in various parts of Ghana, often triggered by issues such as unemployment, unfulfilled promises, and perceived neglect by local authorities. In recent years, similar incidents have occurred in other municipalities, highlighting the need for proactive measures to address the concerns of the youth.  


Experts warn that unless such grievances are addressed through meaningful engagement and development initiatives, tensions could escalate, leading to further instability in affected areas.  


### **Way Forward**  


As the investigation unfolds, many are looking to the MCE and local authorities to take decisive action in addressing the root causes of the unrest. Stakeholders have called for greater transparency in governance, equitable distribution of resources, and enhanced communication between leaders and the community.  


For Keta, this incident serves as a wake-up call to prioritize dialogue, foster inclusivity, and address the needs of all residents to prevent future occurrences.  


### **Conclusion**  


The vandalism of MCE Emmanuel Gemegah’s private building underscores the challenges of managing community grievances in Ghana’s local governance system. While the attack has been widely condemned, it also highlights the urgent need for leaders to actively engage with their constituents and address the underlying issues fueling discontent.  


As investigations continue, the people of Keta hope for justice, reconciliation, and a renewed commitment to peace and development in their municipality.

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