Proposal for New "Eastern West Region" Sparks National Dialogue in Ghana
Introduction
A renewed debate about administrative decentralization has emerged in Ghana as a youth group in the Eastern Region submits a petition for the creation of a new region named "Eastern West Region." The petition, addressed to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and other major political stakeholders, aims to split the current Eastern Region into two to improve governance, infrastructure development, and public service delivery.
This article explores the background, rationale, implications, and public sentiment around this trending political and developmental issue that has captured the attention of citizens and policy makers nationwide.
Background: Eastern Region's Size and Administrative Challenges
The Eastern Region is one of Ghana's most populous and expansive regions. It encompasses diverse geographical landscapes, numerous ethnic groups, and over 33 districts. According to proponents of the new region, its vast size has created logistical and administrative challenges that hinder effective governance, service delivery, and socio-economic development, especially in remote communities.
In their petition, the youth group emphasized that the current regional capital, Koforidua, is far removed from many districts, causing delays in accessing government services and regional-level infrastructure. They argue that the creation of a separate Eastern West Region would decentralize power and resources, ultimately benefiting marginalized areas.
The Proposal: What is the Eastern West Region?
The proposed Eastern West Region would include 16 districts drawn primarily from the western section of the current Eastern Region. Some of the suggested districts include:
Kwaebibirem
Denkyembour
West Akim
Akwatia
Upper West Akim
Birim South
Birim Central
Asene Manso Akroso
Achiase
Suhum
Nsawam Adoagyiri
The proponents believe that creating this new region would bring governance closer to the people, accelerate infrastructure projects like roads and schools, and ensure equitable distribution of national resources.
Why This is a Trending Issue in Ghana
Regional creation has historically been a sensitive and politically charged topic in Ghana. In 2018, the government under President Nana Akufo-Addo oversaw the successful creation of six new regions, including the Oti, Ahafo, Bono East, North East, Savannah, and Western North regions. These regions were created based on similar arguments—access to resources, administrative efficiency, and development.
The Eastern West Region proposal is trending in Ghanaian political discourse because it echoes the same developmental demands that led to those regional splits. Moreover, the involvement of youth in this movement is drawing attention across social media, radio stations, and national newspapers.
Political Reactions
The National Democratic Congress (NDC), which received the petition, has acknowledged it and is reportedly reviewing the feasibility of the proposal. Party insiders say any future NDC administration would consider broader consultations and studies to assess the needs of the people in the proposed region.
The New Patriotic Party (NPP), while yet to officially comment on the proposal, is also likely to weigh in due to the potential political benefits and challenges such a move might entail. Analysts suggest both parties might use regional creation as a campaign message for the 2024 elections.
Developmental Benefits of Creating Eastern West Region
The proponents have listed several expected benefits of creating the Eastern West Region, including:
Improved Infrastructure: A new capital city would likely be established, spurring investment in roads, utilities, housing, and health facilities.
Decentralized Governance: Local governments would have more autonomy and access to funding to address region-specific challenges.
Job Creation: Public sector jobs and local enterprises would grow due to the establishment of new regional offices and institutions.
Enhanced Access to Services: Citizens in previously remote districts would access public services more efficiently.
Boosted Economic Growth: With closer administrative attention, agriculture, trade, and tourism in the region could flourish.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite the optimism, not everyone agrees with the proposal. Some critics argue that creating more regions could strain the national budget, increase bureaucracy, and fuel ethnic and political tensions. Others warn that the process of regional creation often becomes politicized, with governments using it to curry favor with voters.
There are also concerns about whether new regional capitals will receive adequate infrastructure investment to function effectively. The experience of newly created regions like Ahafo and Bono East shows that establishing basic administrative facilities can take years.
The Legal and Constitutional Path to Regional Creation
Creating a new region in Ghana requires a well-defined legal process:
Submission of a petition to the President.
A Commission of Inquiry is set up to assess the demand.
The Electoral Commission organizes a referendum in the affected areas.
At least 50% of registered voters must participate, and 80% must vote in favor.
This process ensures that regional creation is not imposed but reflects the will of the people.
What Are the Citizens Saying?
Reactions on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter (X), and TikTok are mixed. While many youth in the proposed districts support the idea enthusiastically, some netizens question the timing and motives behind the petition. Local chiefs and community leaders in the region have also begun to weigh in, with some offering strong support for the proposal.
Ghanaian think tanks, civil society organizations, and development analysts have called for a balanced approach—one that prioritizes development needs over political interests.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Eastern Region?
The call for the creation of the Eastern West Region has reignited national discussions about regional balance, decentralization, and development planning in Ghana. While the proposal has yet to go through official processes, it signals the growing desire among citizens—particularly the youth—for inclusive governance and equitable development.
Whether or not the region is eventually created, the conversation highlights an important shift in Ghanaian democracy: citizens are increasingly vocal, organized, and proactive in shaping their future.
For now, all eyes remain on the political parties and the government to see how they respond to this ambitious proposal that could change the map of Ghana once again.
Keywords: Eastern West Region Ghana, regional creation Ghana, Eastern Region split, new Ghana regions 2025, decentralization in Ghana, youth petition Eastern Region, Ghana political trends, regional governance Ghana, 2024 elections Ghana, trending news Ghana 2025
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