There was excitement and surprise among many Ghanaians after Dormaahene, Osagyefo Oseadeeyo Agyemang Badu II, made a strong public promise linked to the proposed Accra-Kumasi Expressway project under President John Dramani Mahama.
The respected traditional ruler, who is also the President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, openly declared that he would personally walk all the way from Dormaa to Accra just to thank Mahama if the major highway project is successfully completed.
According to reports by ghanaweb.com, the Dormaahene made the statement while speaking about the importance of good roads and infrastructure development in Ghana.
The traditional leader explained that the Accra-Kumasi road remains one of the busiest and most important highways in the country, yet many people continue to suffer because of traffic congestion, road accidents, delays, and the poor state of some parts of the route.
For years, drivers, traders, passengers, and transport operators have complained about the pressure on the highway.
The road connects major business centres and serves as a key route for trade and movement between southern and northern Ghana. Because of this, conversations about expanding or modernising the road have remained a major political issue under different governments.
The Dormaahene’s statement appears to show just how important the project is to many people, especially those in the middle and northern parts of the country who depend heavily on the highway for daily business and travel.
“I will walk from Dormaa to Accra to thank Mahama if Accra-Kumasi Expressway is completed,” he reportedly said, a comment that immediately drew loud reactions both at the event and on social media.
Many supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have praised the chief for speaking openly about development needs instead of party politics. Some described his words as a sign that Ghanaians are becoming more interested in results and infrastructure projects that directly affect their lives.
Others, however, believe political leaders should first prove they can complete such a massive project before receiving praise. Critics say Ghana has heard many promises about roads and infrastructure over the years, but several projects either delayed for years or never fully completed.
Still, the Dormaahene’s statement has added fresh energy to conversations about infrastructure and national development ahead of growing political debates across the country.
Political watchers also say comments like this carry weight because traditional leaders in Ghana are highly respected voices in society.
Even though chiefs are expected to stay neutral in active politics, their opinions on development projects often influence public discussions.