The International Secretariat of the Construction Sector Transparency Initiative Programme (CoST) based in the United Kingdom have expressed their condolences in memory of the departed Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) Mayor, Mr Anthony K. K. Sam.

Mr Christian J. Poortman, Chair, CoST Board in a letter copied the Ghana Chair, Architect Eugene Ofori- Atta wrote, "it is with deep regret that I write to express the condolences of the CoST Board in relation to the sad demise of the Mayor of Sekondi-Takoradi, Mr Anthony K.K. Sam."

The International Board Chair alluded to the successes chalked with the CoST programme in the Sekondi Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly adding, "without the vision and commitment of late Sam, it is unlikely that such progress would have been achieved".

In March 2019, the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly became the first sub-national member of CoST to promote construction sector Transparency and save government purse of cost overruns, shoddy jobs and delay in project execution.

Subsequently, another milestone was reached in January this year when the STMA published its first assurance report on five selected projects.

Mr Poortman said, "We have no doubt that the reforms that he initiated will ultimately contribute to better quality infrastructure and services and benefit all the people of Sekondi-Takoradi."

The Board, he said, have missed an inspirational leader and champion of CoST Sekondi-Takoradi.

" We pledge our support to continue the important reforms that he initiated and believe that doing so will form part of his enduring legacy," Mr Poortman added.

The Board, therefore, prayed for comfort for late K.K. Sam's family, colleagues and the people of Sekondi-Takoradi.

Meanwhile, a book of condolence had been opened at the Western Regional Coordinating Council for sympathisers.

Already, the Western Regional Minister and his Deputy have signed the book in honour of the late Mayor.