The ongoing debate over the Winneba–Mankessim road under the government’s “Big Push” programme has taken a new turn, with traditional authorities in the area openly disagreeing over the proposed road alignment.

While the Mankessim Traditional Council has previously raised concerns and called for further engagement with government over what it describes as a diversion of the project, the issue has continued to generate tension among stakeholders along the corridor.

At a press engagement, the Nkusukum Traditional Council firmly rejected allegations suggesting it influenced the road alignment through bribery. The council insists the accusations are false and without foundation.

As part of their response, the council performed traditional libation, invoking deities to bear witness and, in their words, deal with anyone responsible for what they described as a damaging claim against their reputation. The ceremony was led by the Gyasehene, Nana Abakah.

A voice-over at the event emphasized the council’s position that the road passes through both Ekumfi and Nkusukum lands, and not solely within the jurisdiction of Mankessim, arguing that the project alignment should not be misrepresented as favouring any single traditional authority.

The Paramount Chief of Nkusukum, Okogyeaman Okese Essandoh IX, strongly dismissed the bribery allegations, challenging anyone with evidence to make it public. He described the claims as unfounded and politically motivated, adding that the council has no opposition to the road project, whether or not the alignment is adjusted.

He further urged the Ministry of Roads and Highways to proceed with its work without interference, stressing that development should not be stalled by what he called “cheap popularity-seeking” claims.