Chiraa, Bono Region — A group calling itself the Concerned Citizens of Chiraa has strongly opposed a decision by the Member of Parliament for the Sunyani West Constituency, Millicent Amankwa Yeboah, to convert the town’s public library into a fire service station.
At a press engagement in Chiraa, the group described the move as a setback to education and youth development in the area. According to the conveners, the public library has for years served as a critical hub for learning, research and intellectual growth, particularly for students who lack access to private study resources.
“The public library remains one of the few academic facilities available to the youth of Chiraa. Converting it into a fire station will deprive students and researchers of a vital educational space,” the group stated.
While acknowledging the important role of the Ghana National Fire Service in safeguarding lives and property, the group stressed that infrastructural development should not come at the cost of education.
“We recognize and appreciate the critical work of the Fire Service. However, development must be balanced. Safety infrastructure and educational facilities are both essential and one should not replace the other,” the statement emphasized.
The Concerned Citizens also expressed dissatisfaction over what they described as a lack of adequate consultation prior to the decision. They argued that the community, particularly the youth who are the primary beneficiaries of the library, were not sufficiently engaged before the announcement.
According to the group, the decision undermines educational advancement in Chiraa and disregards the future prospects of the younger generation.
The protesters have therefore made the following demands:
An immediate halt to the planned conversion of the public library building.
Proper stakeholder engagement and broad community consultation on the matter.
Identification of an alternative site for the proposed fire service station that will not disrupt educational services.
Investment in improving and expanding the existing library facilities rather than eliminating them.
They concluded by urging the appropriate authorities to reconsider the decision in the interest of the youth and the long-term development of Chiraa.
“Education is the foundation of progress. Removing the public library weakens the intellectual backbone of our community,” the group stated.
The protest is being convened by Mr. Kwasi Korang, Mr. Justice Ohene Korang, Ms. Beatrice Ofosu, Mr. George Adu Gyamfi, Nana Boakye Yiadom, Mr. Da Costa Amoah, Mr. Asante De-Bright, Ms. Gloria Serwaa and Ms. Selina Pomaa.
