A first-term assembly member in the Ashanti Region has died in an apparent suicide, local officials said on Thursday, raising concerns about pressure faced by local government representatives.
Kwabena Osei, the assembly member for the Agogo Apentenyinase Electoral Area in the Asante Akyem North Municipality, was found dead at his residence on Wednesday night, according to municipal officials. He was in his early 30s.
Details
Enoch Osafo Asiedu, the assembly member for Obuase Gyedim, described Osei as a young and promising leader who had recently been under intense pressure linked to a proposed fuel station in his electoral area.
Asiedu said Osei had complained that sections of his community were accusing him of taking money from a private developer seeking to build the facility, despite opposition from residents who cited safety concerns about the location.
“He told me his people were putting him under pressure and accusing him of taking money from the contractor,” Asiedu said, adding that Osei was seen moving about normally earlier in the day before news of his death later that night.
Appeal
Municipal officials, including the Municipal Chief Executive and coordinating director, visited the family on Thursday morning to console them, Asiedu said.
He noted that while assembly members are expected to manage community pressures as part of their political responsibilities, the circumstances highlight deeper challenges.
“When you understand the role of an assembly member, you know the pressure comes with the job,” he said. “But committing suicide is not a solution to community development challenges.”
Asiedu also called for greater attention to the mental health of local government officials, citing delayed allowances and growing public expectations as factors that add to stress.
Police are investigating the incident.
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