Essikado-Ketan MP calls for secession from STMA over marginalisation

Dr. Grace Ayensu Danquah is the MP for Essikado-Ketan. She wants the constituency to leave the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA). She cites years of neglect and lack of development as reasons.

On May 15, 2025, she spoke on Accra 100.5 FM's Ghana Yensom morning show. Dr. Danquah expressed frustration over Essikado-Ketan’s contributions being overlooked. She believes the constituency is vital to the area's economy and demographics.

"Essikado-Ketan has the population and economic base to stand alone," she said. However, it remains unrecognized in the name of the Assembly. Major development projects often exclude this constituency.

Dr. Danquah highlighted Kojokrom Market as a key commercial hub in Essikado-Ketan. Yet, economic activity is credited to Takoradi Market Circle instead. "The economic engine starts in Kojokrom," she lamented.

She noted that the railway station for trade is also in Essikado-Ketan. Despite this, STMA ignores calls to include Essikado-Ketan in its official name. The constituency significantly contributes to local revenue but receives little recognition.

According to Dr. Danquah, development projects focus mainly on Sekondi and Takoradi. This leaves Essikado-Ketan behind in progress and resources. She believes a separate municipality would better address local needs.

Her call for secession reflects growing demands from local leaders and residents. They feel their contributions have gone unrecognized for too long.