The MCE’s residence on fire
The Ghana Police Service has launched an investigation into a suspected arson attack on the official residence of the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Afigya Kwabre South, Pearl Ankrah, after a late-night fire destroyed parts of the property over the weekend.
The incident occurred on Saturday, June 21, amid growing tensions in the municipality following Ankrah’s nomination by President John Mahama—a decision that has been met with resistance from some grassroots members of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC).
A video circulating on social media captured flames engulfing sections of the MCE’s residence. Firefighters responded swiftly, but the blaze had already caused significant damage. Thankfully, no injuries or fatalities were recorded.
Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was intentionally set, and at least two suspects are currently in police custody, according to security sources.
Although Ankrah was not at home when the fire broke out, a close associate disclosed that she is “shaken but unharmed” by the incident. The MCE has yet to issue a public statement.
Her appointment has stirred controversy within the constituency, with critics accusing her of disconnecting from the party’s grassroots base. Just two months ago, a group of disgruntled party supporters staged a protest, vowing to disrupt activities at the assembly if her nomination was confirmed.
The incident has heightened political tensions in the Ashanti Region, where pockets of unrest have emerged since the NDC assumed power.
By David Afum, Kumasi