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Tag: Ablakwa

  • I don’t have a State asset under my name – Ablakwa replies NPP

    I don’t have a State asset under my name – Ablakwa replies NPP

    North Tongu Member of Parliament Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has responded to a petition filed against him by Ernest Owusu-Bempah of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The petition requests the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the MP for allegedly violating a provision in the 1992 Constitution by engaging in a profitable venture without parliamentary approval.

    Owusu-Bempah claims that Ablakwa’s actions contradict the constitution, which the MP swore to uphold.

    According to the petition dated Friday, June 7, 2024, Ernest Owusu-Bempah alleged that the North Tongu MP is the “director, sole shareholder, and beneficial owner of Volta Klenam Farms and Industries LTD, incorporated on 2nd September 2021.”

    Ablakwa responded via an X post dated June 12, 2024.

    The MP clarified that the project in question is a constituency project that has not yet commenced.

    “Media reports suggest that a certain doltish mercenary has dragged me to CHRAJ over a constituency farm project that is yet to commence operations,” his post read in part.

    “For the record, I have never purchased a state asset. Nothing will stop us from preventing the sale of our SSNIT hotels to Bryan Acheampong!

    “And our resolve to initiate a Private Member’s Bill to ban the sale of state assets to politicians and politically exposed persons remains unwavering,” the post added.

    Responding via a post on X on June 12, 2024, Ablakwa clarified that the contentious project is a constituency initiative that has not yet begun.

    This is not the first time such an accusation has been leveled against the North Tongu MP. Last year, he dismissed a similar allegation of occupying an office for profit contrary to law.

  • Fresh details on how much Freddie Blay’s children made and spent from Polo Beach Club drops

    Fresh details on how much Freddie Blay’s children made and spent from Polo Beach Club drops

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has released new information regarding the legal dispute involving the children of former Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and lawyer, Freddie Blay.

    The litigation centers on the Polo Beach Club, with Loic Devos Junior and Kwaw Worsemao Blay as the main parties involved.

    In a post on X, Mr. Ablakwa detailed the developments, stating, “I have been poring over some additional 600 pages of court documents including rulings and exhibits in the Loic Devos Junior and Kwaw Worsemao Blay Polo Beach Club litigation.”

    The documents reveal intricate details of alleged “treachery, betrayal, and backstabbing,” which Mr. Ablakwa described as “chilling” and likened to a Hollywood blockbuster. He expressed sympathy for Loic Devos Junior, who he claims was “crudely hounded out of the deal by the Blay brothers.” However, he emphasized that Labadi Beach Hotel deserves the most sympathy.

    The court documents highlight a bitter dispute over substantial sums of money generated from business activities on Labadi Hotel’s encroached beachfront. Despite these proceeds, Labadi Beach Hotel reportedly received no share, following the alleged breach of a joint venture agreement by Kwaw Worsemao Blay and Kwame Edenkema Blay.

    Key financial details from the litigation include:

    1. Gross revenue for the 2019 event: GHS 4,337,113.59
    2. Corporate sponsorship from Pernod Ricard West Africa for the 2020 event: GHS 457,833.87 (€65,000)
    3. Payment made to an individual named “Small God”: US$50,000.00
    4. Amount withdrawn for Mr. Affutu: GHS 25,000.00
    5. Payment made to a company owned by Kwaw Blay for alleged social media platform management services during the 2020 event: GHS 75,000.00
    6. Amount allegedly fraudulently paid by Kwaw Worsemao Blay to himself: GHS 300,000.00
    7. Credit balance on the Company’s momo account as of February 2021: GHS 244,124.32
    8. Monies paid from the Company’s Stanbic Bank account on 23rd January 2023 to one Aminu Adam Zanz: GHS 357,595.00
    9. Amount paid from the Company’s Stanbic Bank account on 23rd January 2023 to Kwaw Worsemao Blay: GHS 100,000.00

    Loic Devos Junior is demanding that the funds spent by Kwaw Worsemao Blay without his consent as director of Gold Coast Expo Ltd be refunded with interest.

    Meanwhile, Mr. Ablakwa has warned, that “these marauding encroachers and their enablers in high places should prepare to meet us in Parliament soon.”

  • Ablakwa releases new documents: Freddie Blay, son fingered in Labadi Beach hotel ownership

    Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has revealed details linking former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, and his son to the ownership of the ‘famous’ SSNIT hotels.

    Providing the information alongside copies of court documents on his social media handle, the National Democratic Congress MP stated that Freddie Blay’s son now asserts ownership of the beachfront of the Labadi Beach Hotel.

    Additionally, the MP highlighted that this revelation makes the Ghanaian hotel the “only beachfront hotel in the world without exclusive control over its entire beachfront.”

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa elaborated on how this information surfaced, noting that it was disclosed in court documents filed by a former partner of Freddie Blay, who felt deceived by the former NPP national chairman.

    “It has emerged that the Hon. Bryan Acheampong is not the only ruling party associate with ‘plans’ for Labadi Beach Hotel.

    “The bombshell court documents confirm that the son of the former National Chairman of the NPP, Mr. Kwaw Worsemao Blay now claims to be the new owner of the beachfront which had always belonged to the Labadi Beach Hotel.

    “Labadi Beach Hotel has thus become the only beachfront hotel in the world which does not have exclusive control over its entire beachfront.

    “Sadly, because of the powerful politically exposed persons involved in this shady encroachment, the Board and management of Labadi Beach Hotel appear helpless.

    “Ghanaians may never have known of this shocking hostile 2022 takeover by then NPP Chairman, Mr. Freddy Worsemao Blay’s son if Mr. Kwaw Worsemao Blay’s business partner, Mr. Loic Devos Junior had not initiated legal action at an Accra High Court (Commercial Division) on February 17, 2023 alleging that his business partner, Mr. Kwaw Worsemao Blay has cheated him out of their business operations and fraudulently denied him of the financial benefits of their joint business dealings,” he detailed.

    The North Tongu legislator further disclosed that Loic Devos Junior, a partner to Freddie Blay, entered into a mutual agreement with the former NPP chairman but was subsequently deceived in the arrangement.

    Following this, Freddie Blay allegedly restricted Loic Devos from accessing the company’s accounts, assuming full control of the business without his involvement.

    Okudzeto Ablakwa also implicated a former Managing Director of the Labadi Beach Hotel in the matter involving Freddie Blay, suggesting that this led to the dismissal of the hotel boss, Rene Vincent-Ernst.

  • Labadi Beach Hotel made GHC158m profit in 2023, how can you sell this “cash cow”? – Ablakwa asks SSNIT

    Labadi Beach Hotel made GHC158m profit in 2023, how can you sell this “cash cow”? – Ablakwa asks SSNIT

    North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised significant concerns about the planned sale of a stake in Labadi Beach Hotel to Rock City Hotel, owned by Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong.

    Mr Ablakwa asserts that the four-star Labadi Beach Hotel, which made a profit of GHC158 million in 2023, has sufficient resources to sustain its operations, making the sale unnecessary.

    In his evaluation of the hotel’s financial records, Ablakwa expressed confidence in Labadi Beach Hotel’s strong financial standing, suggesting it is in a better position than Rock City Hotel.

    “Labadi Beach Hotel is a cash cow and not a struggling hotel as government propagandists are claiming,” Ablakwa stated.

    Labadi Beach Hotel is among three hotels that the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) considered selling.

    Mr Ablakwa, who brought the deal to public attention, questioned why SSNIT would sell 60% of its stake in these profitable hotels to a minister. SSNIT has since clarified that the sale was opened to tender, and Rock City Hotel’s financial statements were the most favorable.

    Ablakwa further detailed the hotel’s robust financial health in a post on the X platform: “I have also intercepted the 2023 management account of Labadi Beach Hotel. The financials reveal that Labadi Beach Hotel has cash reserves in five bank accounts amounting to an impressive GHS54,855,795.00.”

    According to the 2022 Deloitte financial statement, Labadi Beach Hotel had a turnover of GHS120,438,655, which commendably increased to GHS188,076,649.00 in 2023. The hotel’s gross profit also more than doubled from GHS70,734,099.00 in 2022 to GHS158,490,448.00 in 2023.

    In addition to its profits, Labadi Beach Hotel has contributed significantly to the government’s revenue through taxes, paying GHS20,318,232 over the last five years. Ablakwa emphasized, “Anyone who takes over Labadi Beach Hotel alone can use its profitability to revamp all the hotels in SSNIT’s investment portfolio.”

    Ablakwa suggested that the all-Ghanaian management team of Labadi Beach Hotel should be considered to manage all of SSNIT’s hotels, given their demonstrated efficiency and success. He concluded by stating, “I am more convinced that this deal is not in our collective interest. Hands off our SSNIT hotels or get ready for our June 18 DEMO!”

    The planned sale has stirred a debate about the future of SSNIT’s investments and the strategic decisions surrounding profitable national assets.

  • Ablakwa implicates Hamdiya Ismaila in ‘shady’ sale of SSNIT hotels to Rock City

    Ablakwa implicates Hamdiya Ismaila in ‘shady’ sale of SSNIT hotels to Rock City

    In a recent post on X, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised further concerns regarding the sale of hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel, owned by the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    Mr Ablakwa’s post highlighted the potential involvement of Hamdiya Ismaila, a Director of SEM Capital Advisors Ltd, in the transaction process.

    Mr Ablakwa questioned whether Ismaila, who previously served as General Manager at the Venture Capital Trust Fund, exerted undue influence during SEM Capital’s selection as Transaction Advisor in 2019, given her government position at the time.

    He also raised suspicions about the subsequent bid won by Rock City in 2022, suggesting a possible conflict of interest.

    He shared a letter from the Central Tender Review Committee in 2019, granting approval for SSNIT to engage SEM Capital as the recommended tenderer for consultancy services related to the divestiture of its hotels.

    Meanwhile, Mr Ablakwa’s petition to the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) calls for an investigation into alleged conflict of interest, abuse of power, procurement breaches, and other irregularities surrounding the sale.

    SSNIT and Bryan Acheampong have denied any wrongdoing, asserting that Rock City submitted the best proposal for the acquisition of a 60% stake in the hotels.

    As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders await further developments to determine the outcome of the probe into the sale of SSNIT hotels to Rock City, amidst growing calls for accountability and adherence to due process.

  • “If one MP can do this then Parliament can save us” – Manasseh salutes Okudzeto

    “If one MP can do this then Parliament can save us” – Manasseh salutes Okudzeto

    Manasseh Azure Awuni, a prominent Ghanaian investigative journalist and editor-in-chief of the Fourth Estate, has lauded the endeavors of North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa in scrutinizing the controversial sale of SSNIT hotels.

    Azure emphasized the vital role parliamentarians can play in ensuring accountability within the executive branch.

    In a post shared on X on Monday, May 27, Manasseh remarked, “Ablakwa has demonstrated that our MPs can effectively hold the executive accountable.”

    “If one MP can do this, then parliament can save us because many of the shady deals and confidential documents go through one parliamentary committee or the other before getting passed,” he stressed.

    The North Tongu MP has raised concerns about the transparency and integrity of the deal due to the owner’s government position.

    Despite significant public opposition, including from labor unions, Mr. Ablakwa asserts that the government has refused to listen to the overwhelming majority of Ghanaians” and intends to complete the sale “albeit with impunity.”

    He has, therefore, notified the police about a protest scheduled for June 18 in Accra, stating, “”as citizens, we are compelled to enter the next phase of our national resistance.”

  • Ablakwa readies to hit the streets against sale of SSNIT hotels to Bryan Acheampong

    Ablakwa readies to hit the streets against sale of SSNIT hotels to Bryan Acheampong

    National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced plans to lead a public protest against the sale of hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel Limited, a company owned by Ghana’s Minister of Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    The former Deputy Education Minister has already petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the transaction.

    However, Ablakwa has decided to escalate his actions due to information indicating that the deal is still progressing despite widespread opposition.

    Given CHRAJ’s typically thorough and lengthy investigative process, Ablakwa fears the deal might be finalized before the investigation concludes. Therefore, he believes it is essential to increase public pressure on SSNIT to halt the transaction.

    “We are ready to hit the streets, and we have notified the Ghana Police,” he stated on the Joy Super Morning Show on Monday.

    Mr Ablakwa also hinted that he’s working with some lawyers to draft a private member’s bill to stop the sale of state assets to politicians.

    “In the coming days, I shall be sponsoring a Private Member’s Bill in Parliament to expressly prevent politicians and politically exposed persons from participating directly or indirectly in the purchase of state assets.

    The objective will be to legally block all loopholes in the current legal regime which some politicians appear to be exploiting.

    “After 16 years of crusading against politicians purchasing state assets under conflict of interest, opaque, abuse of power and unethical circumstances; I believe it is time to have a strong piece of legislation with deterrent sanctions to end the canker.

    Mr. Ablakwa revealed that after notifying the police about the protest, he received a call from the Accra Regional Police commander acknowledging the notice.

    “I have served the Ghana Police Service with a notice of demonstration because the latest documents I have intercepted reveal that the parties involved are proceeding with the sale and purchase of state assets.

    The petition at CHRAJ has not halted their actions, as they are exploiting a loophole in the CHRAJ law, which does not grant injunction powers.”

    “I want to scale up the public agitation and the pressure and get all of these public officials who are not acting in our interest to listen to the public anger and stop all they are doing.

    “So in compliance with the public order, Act 419. I have notified the police that on June 18, 2024, at 9am, we shall be leading a public demonstration against this sale.

    We intend to start in front of Labadi Beach and proceed through La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, through the Ministries and then end at the jubilee house where we intend to present a petition to His Excellency Akufo-Addo.

    Mr Ablakwa said he expected the president to stop his appointees from proceeding with the transaction.

    “All of those who are acting, the people selling our SSNIT, his cabinet Minister who is keen on buying, they are all his appointees, and he told us that if people want to come into his government to make money they should know that, his government is no place for them, they should go to the private sector and make money, so I’m wondering what’s going on, “he said.

    Ablakwa pointed out that it has been over a week since the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations Against Corruption held a press conference urging the president to intervene directly, yet the president has remained silent.

  • Ablakwa vows to sponsor bill to prevent politicians from buying state property

    Ablakwa vows to sponsor bill to prevent politicians from buying state property

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa intends to present a private member’s bill in Parliament aimed at curbing the acquisition of state assets by politicians and politically exposed individuals.

    The proposed bill aims to “close all loopholes in the current legal framework” and prevent politicians from using their positions for personal enrichment.

    Taking to Facebook on Tuesday, May 21, Ablakwa announced his intention to introduce the bill, emphasizing his longstanding campaign against this practice spanning 16 years.

    He believes that enacting robust legislation with stringent penalties is crucial to preventing further abuses of power.

    “In the coming days, I shall be sponsoring a Private Member’s Bill in Parliament to expressly prevent politicians and politically exposed persons from participating directly or indirectly in the purchase of state assets.”

    “The objective will be to legally block all loopholes in the current legal regime which some politicians appear to be exploiting.

    Ablakwa’s facebook’s post communicating his intentions

    After 16 years of crusading against politicians purchasing state assets under conflict of interest, opaque, abuse of power and unethical circumstances; I believe it is time to have a strong piece of legislation with deterrent sanctions to end the canker.”

    Amidst his petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) regarding the sale of four SSNIT-owned hotels to Dr. Bryan Acheampong, Minister for Food and Agriculture, Samuel Ablakwa is set to introduce a private member’s bill aimed at preventing politicians from acquiring state assets.

    Ablakwa is urging CHRAJ to conduct an inquiry into the sale, alleging a lack of due process and breaches of procurement procedures.

    He is also calling for the sale to be halted pending investigation.

    In response, Dr. Acheampong has expressed disappointment with Ablakwa’s actions, dismissing the allegations as baseless and asserting that they are an intentional effort to damage his reputation.

  • “I don’t receive any salary or benefits from Rock City Hotel” – Bryan Acheampong

    “I don’t receive any salary or benefits from Rock City Hotel” – Bryan Acheampong

    The Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency, Bryan Acheampong, who is the owner of Rock City Hotels Limited, has refuted allegations made by North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, suggesting wrongdoing in Rock City’s proposal to purchase 60% of shares in SSNIT’s four hotels.

    Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, May 21, the Abetifi MP expressed his disappointment in his colleague’s stance, which is that Ghanaians are being short-changed in the transaction.

    Mr Ablakwa hinted at sending a new petition to the Speaker of Parliament, as he believes the MP violated sections of the Constitution by failing to seek the Speaker’s permission to engage in a profit-making venture.

    But according to Mr Acheampong, he does not receive salary or benefits from the company he owns as a non-Executive Director.

    “There is a big difference between Bryan Acheampong and Rock City Hotel. Rock City has its own boss, management who make decisions on the day-to-day running of the company. I own the company, proudly.

    “I am a non-Executive Director of Rock City. But if you are registering at Registrar General, they don’t give you this qualification. You just have to bring two Directors and so definitely I am one of the directors but in terms of the functions, I am not a part of it.

    “I don’t take any salary or emoluments. I don’t participate in anything. I am the vision-bearer. I don’t receive any salary or benefits, they pay SSNIT of close to about 500 staff, you can check if I am one of them,” he said.

    He cautioned the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, against defaming his company.

    “You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he told Mr Ablakwa who was also on the Super Morning Show.

    This development follows days after the NDC MP petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to halt the sale of four hotels to RockCity, of which Mr. Acheampong is one of the two directors.

    Mr. Ablakwa, in his petition, alleged that intercepted documents indicate that negotiations to sell 60% of the shares of the six SSNIT hotels to the minister’s RockCity Hotel Limited “are far advanced.”

    He is seeking an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    The hotels under scrutiny in the petition include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and the Trust Lodge Hotel.

    Mr. Bryan Acheampong has dismissed all the claims made by his colleague. He explained that he is separate from Rock City as a corporate entity and that as a non-executive director of the hotel, he does not need to seek a certificate of clearance from the Speaker, as he has always been in business before becoming a public official.

    “If you have issues with a corporate entity, ask questions. I will never stop you and nobody will stop you from asking questions but in the tangent that you [Okudzeto Ablakwa] are going, it has nothing to do with that.

    “I am a politician and I can be okay with it… but note that you are not speaking the truth and CHRAJ will confirm all this to you,” he told the outspoken MP.

    Mr. Ablakwa is confident that he will be vindicated and the matters will be fairly settled after the investigations by CHRAJ.

    He also mentioned that his suspicion is further strengthened by the fact that Rock City Hotels purchased 25% of SSNIT shares in the Regency Hotel in Kumasi in 2022 at a lower amount.

    However, Mr. Bryan Acheampong disagreed with this claim, insisting that Rock City got the shares for a good value that benefited his business and the state.

    “Rock City tells me and SSNIT has also confirmed that they had several negotiation meetings. One of the minutes is what Mr. Okudzeto has. In the final negotiations that they reached an agreement, the agreement is what Rock City fulfilled and for an asset that for 30 years has not returned one cedi to SSNIT pensioners, it is of value to SSNIT that they check out of that transaction,” he explained.

  • It is an abuse of power! – Ablakwa on sale of 60% stake in SSNIT hotels to Rock City Hotel

    It is an abuse of power! – Ablakwa on sale of 60% stake in SSNIT hotels to Rock City Hotel

    North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has accused Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong of violating the constitution and abusing his power as a state official.

    He argues that state officials should not be permitted to acquire any state assets.

    This accusation stems from revelations that Mr. Acheampong’s business, Rock City Hotel, is in the process of acquiring a 60% stake in four hotels owned by SSNIT.

    Mr. Ablakwa contends that this constitutes unethical behavior and a violation of Articles 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution, which aim to prevent MPs and Ministers from using their positions for personal gain and to avoid conflicts of interest.

    Speaking on PM Express on JoyNews, he noted that although the Agriculture Minister claims he is not involved in the daily operations of Rock City Hotel, he is the sole beneficiary owner of the company and its profits.

    “You (Bryan Acheampong) are sitting in the Cabinet privy to insider information. Nobody can convince me that SNIT, taking such a major decision, would not go to Cabinet for approval.

    “There will be discussions at Cabinet. You have your colleague ministers and government appointees on the SSNIT board. Look, it’s untidy. This is a conflict of interest. This doesn’t happen anywhere else,” Mr Ablakwa said.

    Mr. Ablakwa further pointed out that Rock City Hotel has abandoned its pursuit of ownership in two underperforming hotels while continuing to show interest in the lucrative ones, and is now only focused on making money.

    “It is a conflict of interest. It is an abuse of power, unethical and reprehensible, and I have always maintained this. Remember 16 years ago, I took Jake Obetsebi Lamptey to court when I discovered he was in the process of purchasing his official bungalow, my position has not changed.”

    “No Minister of State or state official The attempt to say that he is not involved in day-to-day management, the issue is about the profits, the proceeds, it is not going to do to workers of Ghana or MPs, he is the sole beneficiary owner.”

    Background

    Last week, the North Tongu MP formally petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate allegations regarding the sale of six hotels to Rock City Hotel, owned by Bryan Acheampong.

    The hotels under scrutiny in the petition are Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and the Trust Lodge Hotel.

    Mr. Ablakwa’s petition seeks an investigation into several allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) denied any wrongdoing in its decision to sell a 60% stake in its hotels to Rock City Hotel.

    “You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he told Mr Ablakwa who was also on the Super Morning Show.

    The next step

    The next step

    Mr. Ablakwa isn’t giving up, though. He informed Evens Mensah that he will bring up the matter with the Speaker of Parliament in a petition.

    “I have obtained the full list of 47 ministers and MPs diligently and I know for a fact that indeed, Bryan Acheampong confirmed this morning that he has not complied with the provisions of the Constitution. So I certainly will bring this to the attention of the Speaker as soon as the house resumes.”

  • Sale of SSNIT’s hotels to Bryan Acheampong a conflict of interest and abuse of power – Ablakwa insists

    Sale of SSNIT’s hotels to Bryan Acheampong a conflict of interest and abuse of power – Ablakwa insists

    North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has accused Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong of violating the constitution and abusing his power as a state official.

    Mr Ablakwa argues that state officials should not be permitted to purchase any state assets.

    This accusation follows the revelation that Acheampong’s business, Rock City Hotel, is in the process of acquiring a 60% stake in four hotels owned by SSNIT.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, this constitutes unethical conduct and breaches Articles 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution, which are designed to prevent MPs and Ministers from abusing their office, taking advantage of their position, and using their influence for private gain to avoid conflicts of interest.

    Speaking on PM Express on JoyNews, Mr Ablakwa noted that while the Agriculture Minister claims he is not involved in the day-to-day management of Rock City Hotel, he remains the sole beneficiary owner of the company and its profits.

    “You (Bryan Acheampong) are sitting in the Cabinet privy to insider information. Nobody can convince me that SNIT, taking such a major decision, would not go to Cabinet for approval.

    “There will be discussions at Cabinet. You have your colleague ministers and government appointees on the SSNIT board. Look, it’s untidy. This is a conflict of interest. This doesn’t happen anywhere else,” Mr Ablakwa said.

    Mr. Ablakwa also pointed out that Rock City Hotel is focused solely on pursuing profits, having opted out of acquiring stakes in two underperforming hotels while maintaining interest in the profitable ones.

    “It is a conflict of interest. It is an abuse of power, unethical and reprehensible and I have always maintained this. Remember 16 years ago, I took Jake Obetsebi Lamptey to court when I discovered he was in the process of purchasing his official bungalow, my position has not changed.”

    “No Minister of State or state official The attempt to say that he is not involved in day-to-day management, the issue is about the profits, the proceeds, it is not going to do to workers of Ghana or MPs, he is the sole beneficiary owner.”

    Last week, North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa lodged a formal petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate allegations surrounding the sale of six hotels to Rock City Hotel, owned by Bryan Acheampong.

    The hotels under scrutiny in the petition include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.

    Ablakwa’s petition to CHRAJ seeks an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has denied any foul play in its decision to sell a 60% stake in its hotels to Rock City Hotel. SSNIT insisted that the process of selecting a buyer was transparent and strictly adhered to the Public Procurement Act, and that Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal among the bids received, meeting the criteria set out in the Request for Proposals (RFP).

    In a statement issued on Sunday, May 19, SSNIT assured the public that it will cooperate fully with CHRAJ throughout the investigation process.

    On Tuesday, Bryan Acheampong responded to the allegations, stating that the claims made by Ablakwa suggesting any wrongdoing in Rock City’s proposal to purchase 60% of shares in SSNIT’s four hotels are false and baseless.

    Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show, the Abetifi MP expressed his disappointment in the stance taken by his colleague.

    “You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he told Mr Ablakwa who was also on the Super Morning Show.

    But, Mr Ablakwa is not relenting. He told Evens Mensah that he will make a petition to the Speaker of Parliament to address the issue.

    “I have obtained the full list of 47 ministers and MPs diligently and I know for a fact that indeed, Bryan Acheampong confirmed this morning that he has not complied with the provisions of the Constitution. So I certainly will bring this to the attention of the Speaker as soon as the house resumes.”

  • Your efforts to destroy me will not prevail – Bryan Acheampong to Ablakwa

    Your efforts to destroy me will not prevail – Bryan Acheampong to Ablakwa

    The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has addressed allegations made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the MP for North Tongu, concerning attempts to purchase four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT).

    During an interview with Joy FM on Tuesday, the Abetifi MP cautioned Ablakwa against efforts to tarnish his and Rock City Hotel’s reputations.

    Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the sale of the four SSNIT-owned hotels to Dr. Acheampong.

    He also calls for CHRAJ to halt and probe the transaction, arguing that the sale of SSNIT’s shares in the hotels lacked due process and violated procurement procedures.

    Dr. Acheampong expressed his disappointment with Ablakwa’s actions, dismissing the allegations as baseless and a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation.

    “You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he said.

    He urged the North Tongu MP to differentiate between him and his businesses and to ask genuine questions if necessary.

    “If you have issues with a corporate entity, ask questions. I will never stop you and nobody will stop you from asking questions but in the tangent that you [Okudzeto Ablakwa] are going, it has nothing to do with that.

    “I am a politician and I can be okay with it… but note that you are not speaking the truth and CHRAJ will confirm all this to you.”

  • I am not after Bryan Acheampong but the country’s interest – Ablakwa on SSNIT hotels sale saga

    I am not after Bryan Acheampong but the country’s interest – Ablakwa on SSNIT hotels sale saga

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu has stated that his petition to probe the sale of Social Security and National Insurance Trust’s (SSNIT) 60% stake in hotels to Abetifi MP, Bryan Acheampong, is not motivated by personal vendetta.

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized that the interest of the nation and its citizens is the supreme reason for his actions.

    “It is not about Bryan Acheampong as a person. We are colleagues in parliament, worked on committees together, and went to PRESEC we are all Ɔdadeɛ so it is nothing personal but the principles,” he said.

    During an appearance on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem on Tuesday, he clarified that the petition has nothing to do with the Minister for Food and Agriculture personally but rather concerns the entire decision, which he considers to be wrong.

    “I don’t mind if it was going to an NDC person, whoever or even someone from North Tongu; I don’t care. I am questioning the rationale and policy decision. How is that in national interest?

    “These hotels are doing well; Labadi beach pays dividends; strategic fixed assets which appreciates every year. You will weep for Ghana when you hear what they want to do at Elmina. Why are you diversifying yourself of 60% from these profitable hotels. All I am saying is that the decision is not strategic and not in the national interest,” he explained.

    Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and halt the sale of the hotels to Mr. Acheampong. The hotels in question include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, and Ridge Royal Hotel.

    His petition calls for an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, and cronyism.

    Additionally, Mr. Ablakwa stated his intention to bring the issue to the attention of the Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, citing violations of the constitution by his colleague MP.

  • You want to destroy me and Rock City – Bryan Acheampong decries Ablakwa’s SSNIT hotel saga

    You want to destroy me and Rock City – Bryan Acheampong decries Ablakwa’s SSNIT hotel saga

    The Minister for Food and Agriculture and Member of Parliament for Abetifi Constituency, Bryan Acheampong, has cautioned the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, against defaming his company.

    Mr. Acheampong, who is also the owner of Rock City Hotels Limited, refuted allegations made by Mr. Ablakwa suggesting wrongdoing in Rock City’s proposal to purchase 60% of shares in SSNIT’s four hotels, calling these claims false and baseless.

    Speaking on JoyFM’s Super Morning Show, the Abetifi MP expressed his disappointment in his colleague’s stance.

    “You are just adding things together and trying to destroy me and trying to destroy Rock City. It is most unfair, it is ‘un-Ghanaian’ and you should stop it,” he told Mr Ablakwa who was also on the Super Morning Show.

    This development follows days after the NDC MP petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to halt the sale of four hotels to RockCity, of which Mr. Acheampong is one of the two directors.

    Mr. Ablakwa, in his petition, alleged that intercepted documents indicate that negotiations to sell 60% of the shares of the six SSNIT hotels to the minister’s RockCity Hotel Limited “are far advanced.”

    He is seeking an investigation into various allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    The hotels under scrutiny in the petition include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and the Trust Lodge Hotel.

    Speaking on the Joy SMS on Tuesday, May 21, Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that Ghanaians are being short-changed in the transaction.

    He hinted at sending a new petition to the Speaker of Parliament, as he believes the MP violated sections of the Constitution by failing to seek the Speaker’s permission to engage in a profit-making venture.

    However, Mr. Bryan Acheampong has dismissed all the claims made by his colleague.

    He explained that he is separate from Rock City as a corporate entity and that as a non-executive director of the hotel, he does not need to seek a certificate of clearance from the Speaker, as he has always been in business before becoming a public official.

    “If you have issues with a corporate entity, ask questions. I will never stop you and nobody will stop you from asking questions but in the tangent that you [Okudzeto Ablakwa] are going, it has nothing to do with that.

    “I am a politician and I can be okay with it… but note that you are not speaking the truth and CHRAJ will confirm all this to you,” he told the outspoken MP.

    Mr. Ablakwa is confident that he will be vindicated and the matters will be fairly settled after the investigations by CHRAJ.

    He also mentioned that his suspicion is further strengthened by the fact that Rock City Hotels purchased 25% of SSNIT shares in the Regency Hotel in Kumasi in 2022 at a lower amount.

    However, Mr. Bryan Acheampong disagreed with this claim, insisting that Rock City got the shares for a good value that benefited his business and the state.

    “Rock City tells me and SSNIT has also confirmed that they had several negotiation meetings. One of the minutes is what Mr. Okudzeto has. In the final negotiations that they reached an agreement, the agreement is what Rock City fulfilled and for an asset that for 30 years has not returned one cedi to SSNIT pensioners, it is of value to SSNIT that they check out of that transaction,” he explained.

  • Stop making inappropriate comments – Nana Akomea to Ablakwa over sale of SSNIT hotels saga

    Stop making inappropriate comments – Nana Akomea to Ablakwa over sale of SSNIT hotels saga

    Deputy Chairperson of the Campaign Team for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Nana Akomea, has criticized the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over his recent comments on the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    Nana Akomea pointed out that while Mr Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate Bryan Acheampong regarding the transaction, he is making statements as if the minister has already committed a crime.

    “Sammy Okudzeto has already pronounced on the matter. He is calling it sleazy and all kinds of accusations, which I don’t think is right.

    “You must be careful with these matters. You’re calling people out for what you call engaging in sleazy acts, but you have called for an investigation by CHRAJ,” he chided the MP.

    Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and halt the minister from acquiring the following hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.

    He argued that the minister’s actions not only constitute an abuse of power but also indicate a lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, graft, and a violation of the Constitution of Ghana.

    SSNIT has also clarified that it is selling 60% shares of the six hotels to Bryan Acheampong’s company because they presented the best offer. The shares of the hotels were advertised for all interested parties to bid on.

    Nana Akomea also made some startling revelations, which are yet to be confirmed, in reaction to the concerns that have stemmed from the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    The Managing Director of Intercity STC Coaches Limited indicated that some properties of SSNIT have been sold to politicians including leading members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), in the past.

    The STC boss, who is a former MP and former Minister of Information, went on to list properties of SSNIT that were sold to leading members of the NDC without mentioning names, which were sent to him by a staff member of SSNIT.

    “The minority owner of the SSNIT hotel in Cape Coast is a high-ranking NDC member. When this person bought it, the NDC was in power. The catering rest house in Tamale was also bought by somebody who is a high-ranking NDC member.

    “The catering rest house in Sunyani was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member. The catering rest house in Kumasi was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member,” he stated.

    Nana Akomea made these remarks during a panel discussion on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme on May 17, 2024.

    He further mentioned that unlike the NDC bigwigs who purchased SSNIT properties while they were in power, Bryan Acheampong has demonstrated his ability to revitalize hotels that are not profitable.

    “Now these people are not even known to be hoteliers, unlike Bryan Acheampong, who has put up what people call the biggest hotel in Africa on his own, and so he is eminently qualified to run hotels that are failing,” he emphasised.

    He also suggested that the CHRAJ investigation should be broadened to encompass all SSNIT properties that were sold to politicians, including members of the NDC.

  • SSNIT hotel in Cape Coast, catering rest houses were sold to NDC members – Nana Akomea alleges

    SSNIT hotel in Cape Coast, catering rest houses were sold to NDC members – Nana Akomea alleges

    Deputy Chairperson of the Campaign Team of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer, Nana Akomea, has made some startling revelations, which are yet to be confirmed, in reaction to the concerns that have stemmed from the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    The Managing Director of Intercity STC Coaches Limited has indicated that some properties of SSNIT have been sold to politicians including leading members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), in the past.

    The STC boss, who is a former MP and former Minister of Information, went on to list properties of SSNIT that were sold to leading members of the NDC without mentioning names, which were sent to him by a staff member of SSNIT.

    “The minority owner of the SSNIT hotel in Cape Coast is a high-ranking NDC member. When this person bought it, the NDC was in power. The catering rest house in Tamale was also bought by somebody who is a high-ranking NDC member.

    “The catering rest house in Sunyani was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member. The catering rest house in Kumasi was also bought by a high-ranking NDC member,” he stated.

    Nana Akomea made these remarks during a panel discussion on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme on May 17, 2024.

    He made this known when he criticized the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, over his recent exposé on the sale of state-owned Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    Nana Akomea pointed out that while Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate Bryan Acheampong regarding the transaction, he is making statements as if the minister has already committed a crime.

    “Sammy Okudzeto has already pronounced on the matter. He is calling it sleazy and all kinds of accusations, which I don’t think is right.

    “You must be careful with these matters. You’re calling people out for what you call engaging in sleazy acts, but you have called for an investigation by CHRAJ,” he chided the MP.

    He further mentioned that unlike the NDC bigwigs who purchased SSNIT properties while they were in power, Bryan Acheampong has demonstrated his ability to revitalize hotels that are not profitable.

    “Now these people are not even known to be hoteliers, unlike Bryan Acheampong, who has put up what people call the biggest hotel in Africa on his own, and so he is eminently qualified to run hotels that are failing,” he emphasised.

    He also suggested that the CHRAJ investigation should be broadened to encompass all SSNIT properties that were sold to politicians, including members of the NDC.

    Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and halt the minister from acquiring the following hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Hotel, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.

    He argued that the minister’s actions not only constitute an abuse of power but also indicate a lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, graft, and a violation of the Constitution of Ghana.

    SSNIT has also clarified that it is selling 60% shares of the six hotels to Bryan Acheampong’s company because they presented the best offer. The shares of the hotels were advertised for all interested parties to bid on.

  • My ‘sloppiness’ has uncovered your govt’s corrupt activities – Ablakwa tells Akufo-Addo’s lawyer

    My ‘sloppiness’ has uncovered your govt’s corrupt activities – Ablakwa tells Akufo-Addo’s lawyer

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has responded to criticism from President Akufo-Addo’s counsel regarding his recent exposé on the sale of six state-owned hotels by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    Akufo-Addo’s lawyer, Kow Essuman, pointed out that the SSNIT statement released showed that Bryan Acheampong’s Rock City began negotiations for the purchase of the six hotels in 2022, not 2018 as Ablakwa had claimed.

    Mr Essuman advised Ablakwa to be cautious when presenting information to hold political leaders accountable, as spreading falsehoods could damage their reputations.

    “Bro, sometimes you should take your time and read your own statements/posts. What started in November 2018 was the procurement process for the transaction adviser – see paragraph 4 of the SSNIT statement. The procurement process for the strategic partner commenced in February 2022 – see paragraph 7 of the SSNIT statement.

    “In other words, Rock City came into the picture after February 2022 and not November 2018 as you sought to imply in your post. Accountability is good, but let’s be accurate,” Essuman wrote in a post shared on his X page on Monday, May 20, 2024.

    Mr Ablakwa disclosed that he had petitioned the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and stop the minister from acquiring the hotels.

    He said the minister’s actions not only constitute an abuse of power but also point to a lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, graft, and a violation of the Constitution of Ghana.

    SSNIT has also stated it is selling 60% shares of the six hotels to Bryan Acheampong’s company because they presented the best offer.

    It also stated the shares of the hotels were advertised for every interested person to make a bid.

    Background:

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa recently alleged that six hotels belonging to SSNIT are being sold to the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    In a post shared on social media on Friday, 17 May 2024, the MP indicated that documents he has intercepted show that negotiations to sell 60% of the shares of the six SSNIT hotels to the minister’s Rock City Hotel Limited are far advanced.

    The North Tongu legislator pointed out that the sale of state properties to government officials constitutes an abuse of power and should not be allowed to happen.

  • Ablakwa reveals more ‘dirt’ in deal between Rock City Hotel and SSNIT for hotels

    Ablakwa reveals more ‘dirt’ in deal between Rock City Hotel and SSNIT for hotels

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has highlighted a timeline discrepancy between when Rock City Hotel began operations and when the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) procurement processes for the sale of the hotels started.

    He noted in a post on X platform that that Rock City Hotel commenced operations in November 2019, a year after the SSNIT procurement processes began in November 2018.

    Mr Ablakwa is presently concerned about how Rock City Hotel, within a short period of operation, managed to outperform and outbid 14 other firms in the procurement process, implying a potential lack of transparency or fairness in the selection process

    “It’s interesting to discover from the SSNIT statement that their controversial procurement processes for the sale of the 6 hotels started on November 14, 2018. In November 2018, Rock City had not opened for business. According to the management of Rock City in an interview with the Miami Herald, Phase 1 of Rock City commenced operations in November 2019 — a year after the SSNIT procurement processes were rolled out. It is even more profound that soon after commencing operations in the middle of the SSNIT procurement, Rock City gathered the financial and technical might to knock out all the other 14 firms they competed against,” he wrote.

    He made this concern known after the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) announced that the process of securing a strategic investor for some of its hotels is in the final stages, emphasizing that no agreement has been concluded yet.

    In a press release on Sunday, SSNIT denied any foul play in its decision to sell a 60% stake in its hotels to Rock City Hotel, which is owned by the Food and Agriculture Minister, Dr. Bryan Acheampong.

    This announcement follows a formal petition lodged by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate allegations surrounding the sale of six hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.

    Mr. Ablakwa’s petition to CHRAJ calls for an investigation into several allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    In his petition, Mr. Ablakwa cites what he views as violations of constitutional provisions, specifically Articles 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution.

    In a subsequent Facebook post on Friday, May 17, he argued that Dr. Bryan Acheampong’s alleged involvement in the hotel sale without the Speaker of Parliament’s permission constitutes a breach of parliamentary protocol regarding holding offices of profit.

    “In my petition, I am inviting CHRAJ to investigate grave matters bothering on conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.”

    “I have also drawn attention to blatant violations of Article 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution as diligent checks from Parliament’s Committee on Office of Profit reveal that Hon. Bryan Acheampong has not applied and does not have the permission of the Speaker of Parliament to hold an office of profit,” he said.

    However, the Trust clarified that the strategy to partner with an investor to raise capital for its hotels and assist in their management began as far back as 2018, following the International Competitive Tendering (ICT) processes prescribed by the Public Procurement Act.

    SSNIT stated that the process commenced in November 2018, after hiring a Transaction Advisor to guide the selection of a strategic investor, among other responsibilities.

    “Further advertisements for an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a Strategic Partner for the SSNIT Hotels were placed in the Daily Graphic on 3rd February 2022 and in the Ghanaian Times on 7th February 2022. The advertisement was also published in The Economist Magazine on 26th February 2022,” it said.

    SSNIT stated that six of the nine companies that responded to the advertisements were then shortlisted and issued with Request for Proposal documents.

    “The qualifying firms were invited for the opening of their financial proposals. Based on the technical and financial evaluation, the Rock City Hotel emerged as the best. Based on the criteria set out in the RFP, Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal amongst those received.”

    “Consequently, it is in negotiation with SSNIT to buy a 60% stake in each of the four (4) hotels (Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel and Elmina Beach Resort),” SSNIT stated.

    They indicated that the bids for Busua Beach Resort and Trust Lodge were deemed unsuccessful, so these hotels are no longer part of the process.

    The Trust emphasized that the process is still ongoing.

    SSNIT stated that it will refrain from commenting further until the pending investigation with CHRAJ is completed.

    “SSNIT will cooperate fully with CHRAJ throughout its investigation process,” it added.

    Media-Release-2024-final_240519_195850_240519_200049Download
  • Process of getting a strategic investor for our hotels not concluded – SSNIT tells Ablakwa

    Process of getting a strategic investor for our hotels not concluded – SSNIT tells Ablakwa

    The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has announced that the process of securing a strategic investor for some of its hotels is in the final stages, emphasizing that no agreement has been concluded yet.

    In a press release on Sunday, SSNIT denied any foul play in its decision to sell a 60% stake in its hotels to Rock City Hotel, which is owned by the Food and Agriculture Minister, Dr. Bryan Acheampong.

    This announcement follows a formal petition lodged by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate allegations surrounding the sale of six hotels: Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.

    Mr. Ablakwa’s petition to CHRAJ calls for an investigation into several allegations, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    In his petition, Mr. Ablakwa cites what he views as violations of constitutional provisions, specifically Articles 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution.

    In a subsequent Facebook post on Friday, May 17, he argued that Dr. Bryan Acheampong’s alleged involvement in the hotel sale without the Speaker of Parliament’s permission constitutes a breach of parliamentary protocol regarding holding offices of profit.

    “In my petition, I am inviting CHRAJ to investigate grave matters bothering on conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.”

    “I have also drawn attention to blatant violations of Article 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution as diligent checks from Parliament’s Committee on Office of Profit reveal that Hon. Bryan Acheampong has not applied and does not have the permission of the Speaker of Parliament to hold an office of profit,” he said.

    However, the Trust clarified that the strategy to partner with an investor to raise capital for its hotels and assist in their management began as far back as 2018, following the International Competitive Tendering (ICT) processes prescribed by the Public Procurement Act.

    SSNIT stated that the process commenced in November 2018, after hiring a Transaction Advisor to guide the selection of a strategic investor, among other responsibilities.

    “Further advertisements for an Expression of Interest (EOI) for a Strategic Partner for the SSNIT Hotels were placed in the Daily Graphic on 3rd February 2022 and in the Ghanaian Times on 7th February 2022. The advertisement was also published in The Economist Magazine on 26th February 2022,” it said.

    SSNIT stated that six of the nine companies that responded to the advertisements were then shortlisted and issued with Request for Proposal documents.

    “The qualifying firms were invited for the opening of their financial proposals. Based on the technical and financial evaluation, the Rock City Hotel emerged as the best. Based on the criteria set out in the RFP, Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal amongst those received.”

    “Consequently, it is in negotiation with SSNIT to buy a 60% stake in each of the four (4) hotels (Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel and Elmina Beach Resort),” SSNIT stated.

    They indicated that the bids for Busua Beach Resort and Trust Lodge were deemed unsuccessful, so these hotels are no longer part of the process.

    The Trust emphasized that the process is still ongoing.

    SSNIT stated that it will refrain from commenting further until the pending investigation with CHRAJ is completed.

    “SSNIT will cooperate fully with CHRAJ throughout its investigation process,” it added.

    Media-Release-2024-final_240519_195850_240519_200049Download
  • Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, others being sold to Bryan Acheampong – Ablakwa alleges

    Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, others being sold to Bryan Acheampong – Ablakwa alleges

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced the sale of six hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Minister for Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

    The hotels in question include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort and Trust Lodge Hotel.

    He has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the matter.

    Mr Ablakwa alleges that SSNIT is set to sell a majority 60% stake in the hotels to the Minister for Food and Agriculture, based on documents in his possession. He is urging CHRAJ to halt the sale to the Abetifi MP.

    In his petition, Mr Ablakwa argues that the sale of SSNIT’s shares in the hotels lacks due process and violates procurement procedures.

    “In my petition, I am inviting CHRAJ to investigate grave matters bothering on conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft,” he said.

    Mr Ablakwa also stated that the MP for Abetifi, who is the owner of Rock City Hotel Limited, has violated the Constitution. He emphasized that the MP has not sought nor received permission from the Speaker of Parliament to hold a lucrative office.

    “I have also drawn attention to blatant violations of Article 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution as diligent checks from Parliament’s Committee on Office of Profit reveal that Hon. Bryan Acheampong has not applied and does not have the permission of the Speaker of Parliament to hold an office of profit,” part of the petition reads.

    Mr Ablakwa also raised significant concerns about the possibility of job losses if the sale negotiations are finalized.

    “I am additionally worried about potential job losses if this sale to Bryan Acheampong is finalised.”

    Read below the details of Ablakwa’s petition

    As I earlier disclosed on Metro TV’s Good Morning Ghana programme, I have today successfully

    Intercepted documents in my possession confirm that SSNIT is far advanced in selling a controlling 60% stake in six of its hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited owned by Hon. Bryan Acheampong, the MP for Abetifi and Minister for Food and Agriculture.

    Hon. Acheampong is a director and the sole beneficial owner of Rock City Hotel Limited.

    The six SSNIT hotels being sold are:

    • Labadi Beach Hotel
    • La Palm Royal Beach Resort
    • Elmina Beach Resort
    • Ridge Royal Hotel
    • Busua Beach Resort
    • Trust Lodge Hotel

    In my petition, I am inviting CHRAJ to investigate grave matters bothering on conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.

    I have also drawn attention to blatant violations of Article 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution as diligent checks from Parliament’s Committee on Office of Profit reveal that Hon. Bryan Acheampong has not applied and does not have the permission of the Speaker of Parliament to hold an office of profit.

    Since 2008, when Dr. Omane Boamah and I dragged the late Hon. Jake Obetsebi Lamptey to court over attempts to buy his official bungalow, I have always maintained that it is wrong, unethical and reprehensible for public officials, particularly, Ministers of State to participate in the purchase of state assets. It is a matter of principle.

    Also, a number of these SSNIT hotels are very profitable and one wonders the rationale for the sale.

    I am additionally worried about potential job losses if this sale to Bryan Acheampong is finalised.

    May God help us to defeat state capture, and to scuttle this opaque and unethical transaction, which is certainly not in the national interest.

    For God and Country.

  • Revealed: Abraham Bawumia, brother of Dr Bawumia, grabs a ‘sweet’ GHC166m deal

    Revealed: Abraham Bawumia, brother of Dr Bawumia, grabs a ‘sweet’ GHC166m deal

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised concerns over a purported ‘sweet’ deal awarded to Resources Access Limited, a company owned by Abraham Bawumia, brother of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.

    The deal, worth GHC166 million, has raised eyebrows and sparked controversy, especially considering the company’s alleged history of benefiting from opaque single-source procurements.

    Mr Ablakwa, known for his vocal stance on transparency and accountability in governance, highlighted the apparent contradiction in the Vice President’s previous criticism of single-source procurements.

    He noted that while in opposition, Dr. Bawumia vehemently condemned such practices, labeling them as overpriced contracts.

    However, the recent revelations suggest that under the current government, the Bawumia family-owned company has reportedly benefitted significantly from similar procurement methods.

    The MP expressed concern over what he described as a “marauding, unprincipled, and nepotistic” procurement empire, suggesting that the situation is “totally out of control.”

    “No Vice President and Chair of the Ghana Armed Forces Council in Ghana’s entire history has engaged in this deplorable conduct.

    “Imagine what the NPP, CSOs, media, anti-corruption crusaders, and the larger Ghanaian society would have done to then Vice President John Mahama or then Vice President John Evans Atta Mills (God bless his soul) if during their respective tenures as Chair of the Ghana Armed Forces Council, road contracts or other contracts within the Ghana Armed Forces were awarded to their direct siblings?” he wrote in a Facebook post.

    He referenced intercepted contract documents and payment vouchers that allegedly reveal a pattern of inflated contracts and preferential treatment for Resources Access Limited.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, the contracts awarded to Resources Access Limited include the rehabilitation of selected roads in Teshie Camp, Southern Command, Military Academy Training School roads, partial reconstruction of selected roads in Accra, and the construction of the Sunyani By-Pass Outer Ring from Kumasi Berekum Road. These contracts, he claims, have contributed to the company’s substantial earnings from the government.

    The MP also raised concerns about apparent conflicts of interest, pointing out that Vice President Bawumia chairs the Ghana Armed Forces Council, which oversees military-related contracts. He questioned the ethics of awarding such contracts to a company owned by the Vice President’s brother.

    Mr Ablakwa’s revelations come at a time when the government is facing criticism over its handling of procurement processes and economic management.

    The MP called for greater transparency and fairness in awarding contracts, emphasizing that all businesses should have equal opportunities to thrive.

    “This is not the Ghana we deserve. Governments must create an enabling, just and fair business climate for all companies to thrive, and not just for their familial or crony businesses.”

    “It is absolutely despicable that Bawumia cannot be trusted to practice what he preaches. It becomes clearer each passing day why Bawumia and the NPP are desperately seeking to break the 8. But the Ghanaian people are determined, and nothing can stop judgment day!” he concluded.

  • Johnnie Hughes makes U-turn on GNPC scholarship list as Ablakwa suggests lawsuit

    Johnnie Hughes makes U-turn on GNPC scholarship list as Ablakwa suggests lawsuit

    A broadcast journalist working with Media General, Johnnie Beresford Hughes, has issued an apology to individuals whose names appeared on a document he shared on social media.

    The document claimed that the listed individuals were beneficiaries of a GNPC Foundation Foreign Scholarship Scheme.

    The controversy arose amidst concerns over the allocation of scholarships by the Ghana Scholarship Secretariat, particularly to individuals with affiliations to the government and the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    On Saturday, April 13, 2024, Johnnie Hughes shared a photo containing the names of several key members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) who were allegedly recipients of the GNPC Foundation Foreign Scholarship Scheme.

    Among the names mentioned were Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, John Jinapor, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, and Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

    Following the publication of the document by the journalist on his social media platform, it sparked a wave of denials from all individuals mentioned. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa even hinted at the possibility of taking legal action in response.

    In light of the developments, Johnnie Hughes has extended an apology to the individuals named in the list. However, he clarified that his intention was not to imply any wrongdoing on the part of those mentioned by sharing the document.

    In his statement, Hughes expressed regret for any offense caused by his post, acknowledging that it had been subject to various interpretations and connotations, including political ones.

    He emphasized that he had promptly shared the rejoinders from Honorable Ablakwa, Jinapor, and Mogtari on the same post, while awaiting an official response from GNPC.

    As a journalist, Mr Hughes noted his inability to disclose his sources but took full responsibility for the content he posted.

    He concluded his apology by thanking his audience for their understanding and reaffirming his commitment to journalistic integrity.

    “Friends, let me first of all state that my post with the caption “Odaseni” is without malice or ill intention.

    “Perhaps, I should have added a few more words to the caption, “Odaseni”, or maybe posed the question I had in my mind when I decided to make a post on what is now clear to a section of the public, as a calculated form of equalisation for The 4th Estate’s ‘SCHOLARSHIP BONANZA’.

    “Since I was hesitant in doing same, and also for the fact that my post has been given many different interpretations and connotations for various reasons (including political), I owe it a duty to sincerely apologise to all persons who feel slighted by my post.

    “Within the hour, I have given the same weight of prominence to the rejoinders of Hons. Ablakwa, Jinapor and Mogtari on the same post and have accordingly shared their respective posts while awaiting GNPC’s official response.

    “Unfortunately, I am unable to share my source as a Journalist and I take full responsibility for what I posted. Thank you,” he posted on social media.   

  • FLASHBACK: Ablakwa’s sister arrested in US over forgery after securing gov’t scholarship

    FLASHBACK: Ablakwa’s sister arrested in US over forgery after securing gov’t scholarship

    In 2012, Mercy Ablakwa, the younger sister of Deputy Minister of Information Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, was arrested in the United States of America (USA) for forgery.

    Mercy, who was 22-years-old at the time, faced criminal prosecution. Documents available to the Daily Guide newspaper indicated that Mercy, a student of Charleston University in West Virginia, was arrested on October 7, 2011, in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, and was subsequently charged with the offense of Forgery-Uttering under section 943.38 of the statutes of the State of Wisconsin.

    A criminal case was filed against Mercy in court on October 9, 2011, two days after her arrest, where the charge of forgery-uttering was preferred against her.

    Daily Guide gathered that the charge of forgery-uttering is classified as a felony under the laws of Wisconsin and that a guilty verdict could have seen Mercy receiving a fine of up to $10,000 or an imprisonment of up to 6 years or both.

    Checks by the paper also established that Mercy Ablakwa got admission into Charleston University in West Virginia in the immediate aftermath of the assumption of office of the Mills/Mahama-led NDC administration and was still a student in the University at the time of her arrest.

    Mercy, who turned 23 that year, had the same mother as the Deputy Minister but the two had different fathers. Attempts to reach Samuel Okudzeto-Ablakwa for his comments proved unsuccessful since he failed to answer his phone, sources said he was well aware of his sister’s arrest as he was put in the know hours after she was busted.

    North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

    He was said to have expressed concern that it may dent his image as a government official, especially considering the fact that he was contesting the North Tongu constituency primaries of the NDC. Sources around the Ministry of Information and friends of the Deputy Minister indicated that Mr. Ablakwa was conscious of the fact that this case could be a huge arsenal for his opponents in the race, including the sitting Member of Parliament, Charles Hodogbey, who had been fighting him for the party’s parliamentary ticket for the area.

    It was alleged that since traveling to the United States, Mercy Ablakwa had maintained a close relationship with her brother, the Deputy Minister, who was said to have facilitated the trip. Daily Guide’s sources in Wisconsin said top lawyers in the state were defending the sister of the deputy minister.

    Mercy was scheduled to reappear in court on February 1, 2012.

  • Ablakwa reveals how Bawumia’s manifesto committee member was dubiously awarded $18M deal

    Ablakwa reveals how Bawumia’s manifesto committee member was dubiously awarded $18M deal

    A member of the team responsible for drafting the manifesto for Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia‘s presidential campaign, Razak Awudulai, has been revealed to have received a significant sweetheart deal worth Ghc250 million from the government.

    Awudulai, reportedly a member of the 2024 Manifesto Committee for Dr. Bawumia, had his private company, Spectrum Fibre Limited, single-sourced by the government to construct a data solutions center that already exists.

    The Public Procurement Authority (PPA), which single-sourced Spectrum Fibre Limited, stated that the company was to “build a Wide Network (WAN) Connectivity Services and Data Solution Centre for GHS’ 745 sites in all regions on an Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU) basis for a 10-year period valued at a colossal US$18,480,125.00.”

    However, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who intercepted the letter contracting Spectrum Fibre, noted that the services the PPA asked the company to provide already exist. Furthermore, Spectrum Fibre Limited has no known track record in the area of the project it has been contracted for.

    In a statement addressing the revelations, Mr Okudzeto Ablakwa described the arrangement as a sweetheart deal orchestrated by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and his government for a close associate.

    “Digitalization has become the new conduit for mega looting of billions of taxpayer and donor funds through dubious, duplicative and deadly single-sourced procurements even as conditions in the health sector continue to deteriorate alarmingly.

    “Seeing how lucrative the digitalization booty has been so far, a few more crony companies have been invited to the looting party apparently to come “bamba with the big boys” (all royalties paid to Goya Menor & Nektunez),” Hon. Ablakwa wrote.

    Describing his efforts to combat corruption through personal vigilance as “Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (SOA) oversight,” the MP revealed that he intercepted documents dated 5th October, 2023, confirming the Public Procurement Authority’s (PPA) approval for the company owned by Razak, who is involved in “special duties” for Dr. Bawumia, to be awarded the contract.

    According to the documents, the approval letter was signed by PPA Chief Executive, Mr. Frank Mante, and addressed to the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye.

    “The intercepted PPA letter grants the Ghana Health Service approval to single source Spectrum Fibre Company Limited to “build a Wide Network (WAN) Connectivity Services and Data Solution Centre for GHS’ 745 sites in all regions on an Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU) basis for a 10-year period valued at a colossal US$18,480,125.00.

    “At the current exchange rate, that is a staggering GHS245million,” Hon. Ablakwa wrote.

    According to the MP, top officials within Ghana’s health sector that he has spoken with on conditions of anonymity have only expressed outrage over the contract because the  US$18.48million (GHS245million) contract is needless.

    “These top deep-throat sources say what Spectrum Fibre has been handpicked to do are already contained in the massive US$100million (GHS1.3billion) contract also awarded under an opaque single-source procurement method in 2017 to Lightwave eHealthcare Solutions Limited.”

    Already, he added, a similar single-sourced sweetheart deal with a company called Lightwave, has resulted in the colossal sum of GHS595,873,749.23.

    “With over GHS595million already paid to Lightwave under this supposedly bankrupt economy, every patriotic Ghanaian would be on the side of these top officials within the health sector who are livid and have legitimately had enough of the needless duplication and reckless dissipation of resources for private gain in the name of digitalization.”

    According to Hon. Ablakwa’s revelation, Spectrum Fibre was incorporated in 2017, a period coinciding with the Akufo-Addo government’s assumption of office. This period saw a surge in the establishment of companies by many NPP-affiliated individuals seeking state contracts.

    The directors of Spectrum Fibre are Razak Awudulai and Fati Baba.

    Spectrum Fibre Limited was incorporated on October 25, 2017, as shown in the attached incorporation details.

    Despite being single-sourced for a project, Spectrum Fibre has no track record in carrying out the specific tasks they have been engaged for.

    “Further checks reveal that the owner of Spectrum Fibre, Mr. Razak Awudulai is currently serving on Vice President Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia’s 2024 Manifesto Communications Committee. Insiders say he also carries out “special duties” for the Bawumia 2024 campaign.

    “Mr. Razak Awudulai was also an appointee of President Akufo-Addo when he served as Managing Director of Go Energy, a subsidiary of GOIL in President Akufo-Addo’s first term. (See appointment letter attached).

    “Further digging also reveal that Mr. Razak Awudulai is an MD of another digitalization company known as Broad Spectrum Limited which has been handed over millions of Ghana Cedis under questionable circumstances by the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund,2 Hon. Ablakwa wrote.

    Hon. Ablakwa highlighted that the Spectrum Fibre deal did not receive approval from the National Information Technology Agency (NITA). He emphasized that this contravenes Act 771 and disregards the Minister of Communications and Digitalization’s circular of 16th June, 2017.

    “It is also to be noted that under the World Bank US$50million eTransform connectivity project, as many as 100 health facilities have already been captured which further exacerbates the wasteful and needless fears raised by stakeholders about the Spectrum Fibre deal.”

    Mr Ablakwa has stated his intention to pursue legal action, including dragging those involved in the sweetheart deal to court, due to the legal breaches and wastage involved. He plans to immediately seek legal restraints to stop these blatant data protection violations.

    Then, he will also, “Petition the OSP on the corruption related aspects of this latest exposé; and Petition donor partners to carry out a forensic audit into all health digitalization projects being funded by them;

    “file a motion in Parliament demanding a much broader bi-partisan enquiry into all digitalization projects. “

  • Heartless! – Ablakwa shocked as govt blows GHC2.67bn on NHIA digital projects alone

    Heartless! – Ablakwa shocked as govt blows GHC2.67bn on NHIA digital projects alone


    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has leveled accusations against the government regarding extensive spending in the health sector, labeling certain initiatives as “dubious, duplicative, and potentially harmful digitalization efforts.”

    In a detailed Facebook post dated April 3, 2024, Ablakwa highlighted that the cumulative expenditure on these initiatives amounted to GH¢2.67 billion.

    He expressed concern over recurring reports indicating various forms of deprivation experienced by health facilities nationwide in recent times.

    “With this shambolic state of health care in Ghana, one wonders why the current Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government will ignore the priorities begging for urgent solutions and rather be fixated on dubious, duplicative and deadly so-called digitalization initiatives at a heartless cost of GHS2.67 billion?” his post read in part.

    He continued: “To our utter shock, the National Health Insurance Authority has submitted a 2024 allocation formula to Parliament, which mindlessly and unpatriotically prioritizes the following:

    1. Biometric ID Cards and Authentication System — GHS405.74million (this is despite the billions we have already spent on Ghana Cards)

    2. Management Information System — GHS343.92million

    3. Capturing of Claims Data — GHS112million

    4. Ministry of Health (Health Provider – E-Health Solution) — GHS80million

    5. Claims Processing Centres and E-Claims — GHS76million

    6. Archival System and Document Management— GHS38.58million

    7. Telecare Services Platform — GHS30million

    8. Transfer of Data from NIA GHS10million

    9. E-Pharmacy — GHS11million

    “The NHIA’s dubious and duplicative digitalization expenditure for 2024 alone amounts to an incredible GHS1,107,240,000. (See attached relevant extracts from NHIA’s Allocation Formula submitted to Parliament.)

    “The fundamental question is — should a struggling health insurance scheme which is unable to pay claims on time, a scheme owing hospitals, a scheme operating in dilapidated hospitals without critical equipment, with many analysts indicating that cash-and-carry is back in many parts of Ghana, be spending over GHS1.1billion on non-core interventions in the name of digitalization?

    “Note also that after the NHIA allocated over GHS1.1 billion in 2024 to shady and misplaced digitalization deals, they callously and shamelessly allocated only a paltry GHS2 million for desperate dialysis patients.

    “What is even more disturbing, my investigations reveal that most of the items the NHIA is spending over a billion cedis on are already catered for in another massive US$100 million (GHS1.3 billion) single-sourced contract awarded in 2017 by the Ministry of Health under Hon. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu to a company known as Lightwave eHealthcare Solutions Limited. The November 20, 2015, registered company is owned by Sampson Djaba and Vincent Attabuatsi (see incorporation documents attached).

    “The US$ 100 million Lightwave project is described as the E-Health Project with Bio-Surveillance (Early Warning) System. The launch took place at the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital on November 21, 2017, and was headlined by Chief of Staff Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare as the Special Guest of Honour, Minister of Health Kwaku Agyeman-Manu as Keynote Speaker, and Dr Anthony Nsiah-Asare, Director General of the Ghana Health Service,” it added.

  • You can do nothing except make noise – Foreign Minister tells Ablakwa over hiked passport fees

    You can do nothing except make noise – Foreign Minister tells Ablakwa over hiked passport fees

    Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, has affirmed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration will not reconsider the recently adjusted passport fees.

    The fee adjustment, which took effect on April 1, raised fees for passport applications from GH¢100 to GH¢500 for the 32-page booklet and to GH¢644 for the 48-page booklet under the standard service.

    In response to public outcry over the new prices, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu and Ranking Member on the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament, has suggested that the fees be reviewed, as they add to the already burdensome expenses for Ghanaians.

    Amidst Ablakwa’s pledge to demand a review of the fees upon the resumption of Parliament, Ampratwum-Sarpong maintains the Ministry’s stance, asserting that the revised fees are not up for reconsideration.

    “It is a matter we will revisit. We will summon the Ministers and officials from the Ministry to see what can be done because this is really terrible. It is going to add on to the already excruciating hardship and anguish that Ghanaians are going through,” he said.

    “If he wants us to come to the committee, we will respect the committee, we will appear before the committee, we will repeat the reasons behind the request and the approval given by parliament for the passport fees,” he said in an April 3 interview with JoyNews.

    He described Mr Ablakwa’s call for a reduction as “noise”, indicating that his concerns will not be regarded.

    “These figures with the support of the majority of Ghanaians have come to stay. There is nothing he can do about it. He can make his noise out there. If he wants to bring it to the committee, to Parliament, we will meet him on the floor of Parliament. We will discuss it, we will debate it, and at the end of the day, he will fall flat on his face,” the deputy minister stressed.

    He defended the fee hike, stating that the increased charges are essential for generating revenue to enhance service delivery at passport offices nationwide.

    “We would have money to be able to invest to buy the equipment, the printers, and whatever other stuff that we need to be able to give excellent service.

    “With the cash revenue flow, it will become possible for us to approach the suppliers of this equipment and materials and whatever that we need in our work.

    “So once we get more computers, once we get more laminating machines, once we get more capturing machines, we will be able to capture more biometrics and therefore the six months, seven months, or eight months appointment days would be reduced.

    “At the moment, it is out of control because we don’t have the capturing machines. We do have some but it is not enough,” he added.

  • Akufo-Addo has shared belated contracts of retired GRA Boss, Rev. Dr Amisshaddai, to cover his tracks – Ablakwa

    Akufo-Addo has shared belated contracts of retired GRA Boss, Rev. Dr Amisshaddai, to cover his tracks – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has shared documents detailing the contract extension of the recently sacked Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Rev. Dr Amisshaddai Owusu Amoah.

    On March 27, it was reported that the President had sacked Rev. Dr Amisshaddai Owusu Amoah after Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Sam George, in January 2024, called on Parliament to declare the Commissioner-General a persona non grata as he had exceeded the mandated 60 years, suggesting he had no contract with the state.

    But JoyBusiness reported that Rev. Dr Amisshaddai Owusu Amoah had not been sacked by President Akufo-Addo as the Commissioner General’s contract was extended by two years, from 11th October 2021, when he was said to have achieved the retirement age, to 10th October, 2023. 

    The media house further reported that he was then given a further contract which should end by March 31, 2024.

    Now, Mr Ablakwa has shared what he describes as “two belated contracts” meant for the retired former GRA boss. He believes these contracts were drafted for the Rev. “to cover his tracks.”

    The contracts shared by Mr Ablakwa corroborates the earlier reports by JoyBusiness.

    Per reports, Rev. Dr Amisshaddai Owusu Amoah’s time in office ended on Sunday, March 31, 2024, as he handed over to Deputy Commissioner of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Julie Essiam.

  • Bawumia and NHIA’s dubious, deadly digitalization initiatives have cost Ghana over GHC2 billion – Ablakwa

    Bawumia and NHIA’s dubious, deadly digitalization initiatives have cost Ghana over GHC2 billion – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has accused the government of significant expenditure in the health sector, describing its initiatives as “dubious, duplicative, and deadly so-called digitalization.”

    In a detailed Facebook post on April 3, 2024, Mr Ablakwa stated that these initiatives amounted to GH¢2.67 billion. He expressed concern over repeated reports of deprivation in health facilities nationwide in recent years.

    “With this shambolic state of health care in Ghana, one wonders why the current Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government will ignore the priorities begging for urgent solutions and rather be fixated on dubious, duplicative and deadly so-called digitalization initiatives at a heartless cost of GHS2.67 billion?” a portion of his post read.

    He noted that the National Health Insurance Authority has submitted a 2024 allocation formula to Parliament that prioritizes the following in a “thoughtless and unpatriotic manner”:

    1. Biometric ID Cards and Authentication System — GHS405.74 million (despite the substantial amount already spent on Ghana Cards)
    2. Management Information System — GHS343.92 million
    3. Capturing of Claims Data — GHS112 million
    4. Ministry of Health (Health Provider – E-Health Solution) — GHS80 million
    5. Claims Processing Centres and E-Claims — GHS76 million
    6. Archival System and Document Management— GHS38.58 million
    7. Telecare Services Platform — GHS30 million
    8. Transfer of Data from NIA GHS10 million
    9. E-Pharmacy — GHS11 million

    Mr Ablakwa questioned whether it was right for a “struggling health insurance scheme which is unable to pay claims on time, a scheme owing hospitals, a scheme operating in dilapidated hospitals without critical equipment, with many analysts indicating that cash-and-carry is back in many parts of Ghana, be spending over GHS1.1billion on non-core interventions in the name of digitalization?”

    “Note also that after the NHIA allocated over GHS1.1 billion in 2024 to shady and misplaced digitalization deals, they callously and shamelessly allocated only a paltry GHS2 million for desperate dialysis patients,” he added.

  • Ablakwa writes: The GHS2.6 billion dubious, duplicative & deadly digitalization deals in Ghana’s health sector – Part 1

    Ablakwa writes: The GHS2.6 billion dubious, duplicative & deadly digitalization deals in Ghana’s health sector – Part 1

    Ghana’s health sector has been in the news lately for all the wrong reasons.

    A few months ago, 19 renal patients lost their lives at the Korle-Bu Renal Unit because government was unable to provide just GHS4million. The dialysis crisis has still not been resolved even as private companies like the First Sky Group come to the rescue.

    Doctors at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) have warned that all their dialysis machines except one and half have broken down without government intervention to replace them for several months.

    KATH has been without a mammography machine to diagnose early signs of breast cancer for several years.

    Prominent chiefs and opinion leaders continue to agitate about their abandoned hospital projects — most of which were almost completed by 2016.

    Not too long ago, the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government could not provide childhood vaccines leading to a national emergency. Ghana had to fall on Nigeria for a bailout albeit under deceitful circumstances.

    Numerous government hospitals are lamenting the lack of critical medical equipment needed to save lives. If MRI machines at prestigious hospitals such as 37 and Ridge have broken down for months without resources to repair or replace them, then one can imagine the situation in less endowned facilities.

    Indeed, former Health Minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu told Parliament not too long ago that Ghana has only 4 functioning MRIs in government hospitals across the entire country.

    Funding for President Akufo-Addo’s flagship Agenda 111 has remained a huge challenge as he repeatedly misses his completion deadlines since the peak of COVID-19.

    Doctors, nurses, midwives and other health workers continue to agitate for better working conditions. The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) revealed this week that already some 6,000 nurses have left Ghana since August 2023 in search of the proverbial greener pastures.

    The GRNMA President, Mrs. Perpetual Ofori-Ampofo left many Ghanaians further depressed when she revealed that many heroic nurses who put their lives at great risk on the frontlines of the covid war have still not received the package they were promised by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government.

    Ghanaians are yet to recover from the tragedy at the Tema General Hospital NICU which occurred a few days ago when the hospital was subjected to DUMSOR. Apparently, the standby generator to protect babies on oxygen was faulty. One mother insists she lost her precious baby because of this national disgrace.

    Health facilities which were hitherto exempted from ECG disconnections no longer enjoy that dispensation.

    As a Member of Parliament, I have been compelled to rely on my external network to equip hospitals and establish a surgical block in my beloved constituency.

    With this shambolic state of health care in Ghana, one wonders why the current Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government will ignore the priorities begging for urgent solutions, and rather be fixated on dubious, duplicative and deadly so-called digitalization initiatives at a heartless cost of GHS2.67billion?

    To our utter shock, the National Health Insurance Authority has submitted a 2024 allocation formula to Parliament which mindlessly and unpatriotically prioritizes the following:

    1. Biometric ID Cards and Authentication System — GHS405.74million (this is despite the billions we have already spent on Ghana Cards)

    2. Management Information System — GHS343.92million

    3. Capturing of Claims Data — GHS112million

    4. Ministry of Health (Health Provider – E-Health Solution) — GHS80million

    5. Claims Processing Centres and E-Claims — GHS76million

    6. Archival System and Document Management— GHS38.58million

    7. Telecare Services Platform — GHS30million

    8. Transfer of Data from NIA GHS10million

    9. E-Pharmacy — GHS11million

    The NHIA’s dubious and duplicative digitalization expenditure for 2024 alone amounts to an incredible GHS1,107,240,000. (See attached relevant extracts from NHIA’s Allocation Formula submitted to Parliament)

    The fundamental question is — should a struggling health insurance scheme which is unable to pay claims on time, a scheme owing hospitals, a scheme operating in dilapidated hospitals without critical equipment, with many analysts indicating that cash-and-carry is back in many parts of Ghana be spending over GHS1.1billion on non-core interventions in the name of digitalization?

    Note also that after the NHIA allocated over GHS1.1billion in 2024 to shady and misplaced digitalization deals, they callously and shamelessly allocated only a paltry GHS2million for desperate dialysis patients.

    What is even more disturbing, my investigations reveal that most of the items the NHIA is spending over a billion Cedis on are already catered for in another massive US$100million (GHS1.3billion) single-sourced contract awarded in 2017 by the Ministry of Health under Hon. Kwaku Agyeman-Manu to a company known as Lightwave eHealthcare Solutions Limited. The 20th November, 2015 registered company is owned by Sampson Djaba and Vincent Attabuatsi (see incorporation documents attached).

    The US$100million Lightwave project is described as the E-Health Project with Bio-Surveillance (Early Warning) System. The launch took place at the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital on November 21, 2017 and was headlined by Chief of Staff, Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare as the Special Guest of Honour, Minister of Health, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu as Keynote Speaker and Dr. Anthony Nsiah-Asare, Director General of the Ghana Health Service.

    At this launch, and from further documentation in my possession, the scope of the US$100million (GHS1.3billion) Lightwave deal encompasses the following 8 key features:

    �i) Centralised data centre with 24hr recovery

    ii) Networking and connectivity of ALL hospitals clinics, and community health clinics in every region/district/sub-district in Ghana�(iii) Networking of ALL agencies�(iv) Provide electronic medical records�v) Develop real-time bio-surveillance system�(vi) Develop patient management system.�(vii) NHIS Integration platform�(viii) Develop a centralised laboratory system.

    (The claims above as contained in the launch brochure are duly attached.)

    Even before the November 21, 2017 launch, Health Minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu signed a 2nd June, 2017 letter addressed to the Ghana Health Service Director General confirming his ministry’s engagement of Lightwave and how the roll out will ensure that “hospital data is integrated with claims management system of the National Health Insurance Scheme.” (Intercepted letter is attached).

    The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government should be explaining to Ghanaian taxpayers why we should be paying over GHS2.6billion Cedis on needless, duplicative and wasteful digitalization deals at the NHIA, Lightwave and another as will de disclosed tomorrow, particularly taking into account other more important and basic unresolved challenges in the health sector.

    Strangely, the then Health Minister’s 2nd June, 2017 letter practically killed the businesses of all other Electronic Medical Records (EMR) and Patient Management System (PMS) providers in the space, considering that all heads of facilities were warned in the minister’s letter not to renew any existing EMR contract. (See last paragraph of intercepted letter).

    My further probing confirms that the Lightwave sweetheart deal is still very much active and is costing the Ghanaian taxpayer a fortune.

    In 2023 alone, at a time the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government said they didn’t have GHS4million to save the lives of 19 dialysis patients at Korle Bu, Ghanaian taxpayers coughed a staggering GHS246.8million to pay Lightwave for digitalization — largely the same digitalization we are about to pay billions for again via the NHIA — absolutely unconscionable!

    The unimpeachable and irrefutable breakdown of the GHS246.8million 2023 payments to Lightwave are provided below:

    LIGHTWAVE 2023 PAYMENTS

    Date: 29-Dec-23

    Invoice Number: MOH/HQ/GS/095/23/RW

    Amount: 62,364,068.07

    Date: 18-April-23

    Invoice Number: MOH/HQ/CEA/002/23/RW

    Amount: 33,844,469.46

    Date: 9-Nov-23

    Invoice Number: MOH/HQ/GS/073/23/RW

    Amount: 69,267,118.15

    Date: 23-Aug-23

    Invoice Number: NHIA/FA/MOH/SEP23/5177/TOM

    Amount: 11,982,270.92

    Date: 23-Jun-23

    Invoice Number: NHIA/FA/MOH/JUN23/2903/DOK

    Amount: 17,775,000.00

    Date: 30-May-23

    Invoice Number: NHIA/FA/MOH/MAY23/2901/DOK Amount: 16,450,000.00

    Date: 30-Oct-23

    Invoice Number: NHIA/FA/MOH/NOV23/3179/DOK

    Amount: 25,000,000.00

    27-Nov-23

    NHIA/FA/GS/DEC23/5304/TOM

    10,210,781.84

    TOTAL ——————– 246,893,710

    Additional evidence of how active the US$100million Lightwave deal is can be gleaned from the recent 29th February, 2024 letter signed by Ghana Health Service Director General, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye addressed to selected regional health directors. (See intercepted letter attached).

    Very instructively, I am not the only one detecting and raising genuine concerns about the lack of value for money, duplication and wasteful expenditures with this misguided craze for digitalization. Two weeks after the Health Minister’s 2nd June, 2017 letter instructing all health facilities to open their doors to the almighty Lightwave, the Communications and Digitalization Minister in the same Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, promptly issued a strongly worded notice to all Ministries, Departments and Agencies dated 16th June, 2017 in which she condemns the canker and urged her colleagues to consult NITA before engaging in these costly digitalization procurements. (See intercepted Notice attached).

    It is obvious the Communications and Digitalization Minister’s Notice was contemptuously ignored then, and continues to be ignored to this day.

    The much touted digitalization drive has obviously become the new conduit for create-loot-and-share schemes.

    I am most delighted that Parliament before going on recess ordered a parliamentary probe into all the alarming digitalization contracts within the health sector.

    It is time for President Akufo-Addo to suspend the plethora of dubious, doubtful, duplicative, deadly, amorphous, needless and extremely wasteful GHS2.6billion digitalization shady deals in the health sector. I shall be writing to him demanding his urgent intervention in this regard.

    In Part 2 of this exposé to be released on Thursday April 4, 2024 at 6am, I shall reveal how another very powerful crony company is cashing in on this lucrative digitalization looting spree in the health sector, even as the real healthcare challenges are abandoned, and the much bigger dangers for our collective security.

    The digitalization looting cabal shall be defeated!

    For God and Country.

    DISCLAIMER: TIGPost.co will not be liable for any inaccuracies contained in this article. The views expressed in the article are solely those of the author’s, and do not reflect those of The Independent Ghana.

  • Rescind “draconian fees” – Ablakwa slams Foreign Ministry for increased passport application fees

    Rescind “draconian fees” – Ablakwa slams Foreign Ministry for increased passport application fees

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed his discontent with the decision of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration to raise passport application fees.

    The Ministry recently announced an increase in fees and charges for its services, effective from Monday, April 1, 2024. This adjustment is said to align with the 2023 fees and charges regulations, L.I.2481.

    “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration wishes to inform its valued clients that, in accordance with the fees and charges (Miscellaneous provisions) Regulations, 2023 (L.I 2481). There will be an adjustment in the fees and charges for all services provided by the Ministry. The adjustment will take effect from Monday, 1st April 2024.”

    Processing fee for expedited 48-page passport now costs GH¢800, while 32 pages application is GH¢700.

    “Expedited Application 48 Pages GH¢800.00. Expedited Application 32 Pages GH¢700.00.Standard Application 32 Pages GH¢500.00. Standard Application 48 Pages GH¢644.00,” the Ministry added.

    In a social media post on Monday, the North Tongu MP argued that the current economic crisis and the unprecedented high cost of living make the increased fees untenable.

    He stated that he and his colleagues on the Foreign Affairs Committee had suggested a graduated approach for fee increases when economic conditions improve, but their advice was disregarded.

    Mr. Ablakwa urged the Ministry to immediately reconsider this detrimental action.

    “I am terribly disappointed in Ghana’s Foreign Ministry for the astronomical increases in passport application fees. As my NDC colleagues and I always maintained at the Foreign Affairs Committee, the current economic crisis and unprecedented high cost of living make it untenable to impose these draconian fees. We insisted at Committee that the worst case scenario could be a graduated approach when economic conditions improve but alas they ignored our advice and have gone ahead to impose these insensitive rates in one fell swoop.”

    “The Ministry should reconsider this inimical action immediately. We shall surely revisit this matter when Parliament resumes from recess,” he stated.

  • Don’t think you can order parliament around – Ablakwa to Bediatuo

    Don’t think you can order parliament around – Ablakwa to Bediatuo

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has criticized Nana Bediatuo Asante, Executive Secretary to President Akufo-Addo.

    Bediatuo has been in the spotlight due to a letter he penned, urging the Clerk of Parliament to halt the transmission of the anti-LGBT+ Bill to the presidency for assent, citing legal challenges against the Bill.

    The tone and contents of the letter have been seen as disrespectful to the House, particularly by opposition lawmakers and Speaker Alban Bagbin.

    In a social media post dated March 20, 2024, Ablakwa shared his thoughts on the letter, emphasizing that the presidency should not assume it can control Parliament.

    “I hope President Akufo-Addo’s Secretary, Nana Asante Bediatuo, isn’t assuming he can control the Ghanaian Parliament like he controls Madam Butterfly Restaurant Limited, which he incorporated after becoming Secretary to the President of Ghana.

    “Parliament’s constitutional independence must be respected. We shall not be subjected to the control of familial appointees at the presidency!” Ablakwa’s post, which was accompanied by company documents with Bediatuo’s registration details, read in part.

    “I shall reserve the activities of Madam Butterfly for another day. By the way, how different is Bediatuo’s butterfly from Alan’s butterfly? Interesting days ahead,” the post concluded.

    In Speaker Bagbin’s formal response to Akufo-Addo’s rejection of the anti-LGBT+ Bill, as stated in Bediatuo’s letter, he accused the presidency of acting against the Constitution.

    Bagbin also mentioned Parliament’s inability to approve some of the president’s ministerial nominees at the end of his statement, read in Parliament, citing an injunction filed against him and Parliament by an opposition MP.

  • Your control ends at Madam Butterfly Restaurant – Ablakwa fires Akufo-Addo’s Secretary

    Your control ends at Madam Butterfly Restaurant – Ablakwa fires Akufo-Addo’s Secretary

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has criticized the Executive Secretary to President Akufo-Addo, Nana Bediatuo Asante.

    Nana Bediatuo made headlines for a letter he wrote to the Clerk of Parliament, urging him to halt the transmission of the anti-LGBT+ Bill to the presidency for assent, citing two legal suits against the Bill.

    The letter’s tone and contents have been seen as contemptuous of the House, particularly by opposition lawmakers and Speaker Alban Bagbin.

    Mr Ablakwa, in a social media post dated March 20, 2024, reiterated the view that the Presidency should not assume it can control Parliament through its actions.

    “I hope President Akufo-Addo’s Secretary, Nana Asante Bediatuo, isn’t assuming he can control the Ghanaian Parliament like he controls Madam Butterfly Restaurant Limited, which he incorporated after becoming Secretary to the President of Ghana.

    “Parliament’s constitutional independence must be respected. We shall not be subjected to the control of familial appointees at the presidency!” Ablakwa’s post, which was accompanied by company documents with Bediatuo’s registration details, read in part.

    “I shall reserve the activities of Madam Butterfly for another day. By the way, how different is Bediatuo’s butterfly from Alan’s butterfly? Interesting days ahead,” the post concluded.

    In his formal response to President Akufo-Addo’s refusal to receive the anti-LGBT+ Bill, as stated in Bediatuo’s letter, Speaker Bagbin accused the presidency of acting contrary to the Constitution.

    Bagbin also communicated Parliament’s inability to approve some of the president’s ministerial nominees at the tail end of his statement, read in Parliament, citing an injunction brought against him and Parliament by an opposition MP.

    Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has denied receiving any interlocutory injunction related to the case brought by Member of Parliament for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Etse K. Dafeamekpor over the ministerial appointment made by President Akufo-Addo.

    Mr. Dame, in a letter addressed to the Speaker on Thursday, March 21, clarified that he has not been served with any legal documents regarding such court proceedings.

    “The plaintiff has not filed an application for interlocutory injunction seeking to restrain the Speaker from proceeding with the vetting and approval of the names of the persons submitted by His Excellency the President…”, or indeed, any other interlocutory relief.”

    “Thus, there is nothing before the Supreme Court which may constitute a restraint or fetter on Parliament from proceeding with the approval of ministerial and deputy ministerial nominees presented to Parliament by the President in accordance with articles 78(1) and 79(1) of the Constitution.”

  • 13th African Games volunteers being asked to buy their own prepaid – Reports

    13th African Games volunteers being asked to buy their own prepaid – Reports

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has provided information that indicates that volunteers for the 13th African Games have been directed to purchase their own electricity for the interim as authorities work to refund monies used.

    This comes after over 100 volunteers have been forced to sleep in darkness for over four days in their residences due to finished prepaids.

    In a Facebook post, Mr Ablakwa shared a WhatsApp conversation between one John (believed to be the medium between the authorities and the volunteers) and volunteers.

    As remedy, the volunteers have been directed to purchase their own electricity for the interim

    “Please how far with those with finish prepaid credits, some volunteers have been without lights for the past 4 days,” a concerned volunteer wrote.

    John replied: “Team, unfortunately, we’re still awaiting funds for electricity. If possible, please purchase small amounts for your rooms. We’re working on securing the funds, but will alert you when we get some funds. Your patience is appreciated.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, it is unacceptable to claim everything is working out smoothly with regards to the tournament, as done by the Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, when volunteers are struggling.

    “As Ghana’s Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif goes about bragging that he’s organized the best African Games, hundreds of his volunteers are without prepaid credits and have been sleeping in darkness at the games for more than 4 days,” he said.

    He expressed concern that “a US$243million tournament is unable to pay for prepaid credits, and yet the Minister is demanding praise.”

    “I reiterate that Ghana’s hosting of the 13th African Games is the next big scandal. We shall delve into the multiple scandals soon,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed disapproval of the media’s focus on the negative aspects of Ghana’s hosting of the 2023 African Games. Instead, he encourages highlighting the positive elements of the event.

    During a press conference at the University of Ghana Stadium, Mr Ussif argued that Ghana has garnered international acclaim for organizing “spectacular games.”

  • 13th African Games volunteers have slept in ‘dumsor’ for more than 4 days due to finished prepaid credit – Ablakwa

    13th African Games volunteers have slept in ‘dumsor’ for more than 4 days due to finished prepaid credit – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has alleged that individuals who volunteered for the 13th African Games have slept in darkness for over four days in their residences due to exhausted prepaid credits.

    In a Facebook post, Mr Ablakwa shared a WhatsApp conversation between one John (believed to be the medium between the authorities and the volunteers) and volunteers.

    As a remedy, the volunteers have been directed to purchase their own electricity for the interim as authorities work to refund the money used.

    “Please how far with those with finish prepaid credits, some volunteers have been without lights for the past 4 days,” a concerned volunteer wrote.

    John replied: “Team, unfortunately, we’re still awaiting funds for electricity. If possible, please purchase small amounts for your rooms. We’re working on securing the funds, but will alert you when we get some funds. Your patience is appreciated.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, it is unacceptable to claim everything is working out smoothly with regards to the tournament when volunteers are struggling.

    “As Ghana’s Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif goes about bragging that he’s organized the best African Games, hundreds of his volunteers are without prepaid credits and have been sleeping in darkness at the games for more than 4 days,” he said.

    He expressed concern that “a US$243million tournament is unable to pay for prepaid credits, and yet the Minister is demanding praise.”

    “I reiterate that Ghana’s hosting of the 13th African Games is the next big scandal. We shall delve into the multiple scandals soon,” he added.

    Meanwhile, Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed disapproval of the media’s focus on the negative aspects of Ghana’s hosting of the 2023 African Games. Instead, he encourages highlighting the positive elements of the event.

    During a press conference at the University of Ghana Stadium, Mr Ussif argued that Ghana has garnered international acclaim for organizing “spectacular games.”

  • GNPC Board increased hotel allowance to $1000, gave Freddie Blay $850 per diem in 2022 – Ablakwa

    GNPC Board increased hotel allowance to $1000, gave Freddie Blay $850 per diem in 2022 – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed documents that highlight an increase in allowance for Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) Board members.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, in 2022, when Ghana’s economic crisis exacerbated, approved new rates as per diem and hotel rates for the Board Chairman, Freddie Blay, the Chief Executive, Board Members and External Committee Board Members

    “When a government asks everyone to take financial haircuts due to the effects of their economic mismanagement, we don’t expect its officials to be approving for themselves fat increments in allowances.

    “Intercepted memos from GNPC reveal that the Freddie Blay-led board and management have increased their allowances by up to 150% despite Ghana’s economic crisis and contrary to government’s assurances to Parliament of a general pay-cut,” he wrote in a post on X platform.

    The daily hotel rate allowance has been raised from $400 to $1000, €400 to €1000, or £400 to £1000, depending on the travel destination.

    Per diem for the Board Chairman has increased from $500 to $850, €500 to €850, or £500 to £850, and from $500 to $700, €500 to €700, or £500 to £700 for the CEO and other board members, also based on the travel location, Mr Ablakwa added.

    Mr Abalkwa expressed deep dismay over the prospect of doubling the CEO’s salary, stating, “It is even more depressing to read other memos requesting that the salary of the CEO is doubled.”

    He highlighted the frustration among insiders, who are reportedly angry over the perceived favoritism towards the CEO, Mr. Opoku Ahweneeh Danquah, who happens to be President Akufo-Addo’s nephew. According to sources, there is a prevailing sentiment that the CEO consistently receives preferential treatment and has his demands met without question.

    “I believe it is time to regulate the incestuous discretion of boards and CEOs of State-Owned Enterprises to determine their own salaries and allowances without parliamentary approval — particularly when most SOEs are being terribly mismanaged and making huge losses. I shall in the coming days be proposing new private member’s legislation to end this detrimental practice,” he added.

  • GHS2.6m I loaned for National Cathedral project was refunded to me – Rev. Kusi Boateng

    GHS2.6m I loaned for National Cathedral project was refunded to me – Rev. Kusi Boateng

    The Executive Secretary of the Board of Trustees overseeing the National Cathedral Project, Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng, has denied accusations of illicitly receiving GH¢2.6 million from the initiative.

    The allegations were levied by the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

    In an interview on Onua FM on March 7, 2024, Rev. Boateng refuted the claims, asserting that the GH¢2.6 million in question was actually a loan he provided to the project.

    The National Cathedral Project was facing financial challenges and urgently required funds for crucial purchases.

    Rev. Boateng emphasized that these transactions were well-documented in an official letter.

    In response to the accusations, Rev. Boateng expressed his disbelief, stating, “It’s so funny, human beings know the truth but will look upon the face of God and lie. How can a whole MP who come out to say that I have stolen GH¢2.6 million, if he does this, how can we build the Cathedral?”

    “The person doing this has seen the said documents, he’s seen it privately, he’s seen it publicly that the Cathedral had to make some payments for some items, and at the time the Cathedral didn’t have money to support itself.

    “As the Secretary, I informed the Secretariat that I had some money that I could help assist in making such payments, and with that, an official letter was written to me to release the funds that I said I had and after 14 days or so, the funds were transferred back to me ” Rev. Boateng explained.

    He further explained that as the Secretary, he informed the Secretariat about the available funds he could contribute to essential payments.

    An official letter was then drafted, requesting the release of the funds, and after approximately 14 days, the funds were returned to him.

    Another member of the Board of Trustees, Reverend Dr. Joyce Aryee, had earlier defended the GH¢2.6 million payment to JNS Talent Centre Limited, a firm connected to Kusi Boateng. She explained that the secretariat urgently needed the amount to settle a contractor but lacked the funds. In response, Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng stepped in to pay the specified amount, which was subsequently refunded to him without any interest.

  • Additional US$250m needed for National Cathedral completion – Board of Trustees Secretary

    Additional US$250m needed for National Cathedral completion – Board of Trustees Secretary

    A member and secretary to the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral project, Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng, has provided an estimate of the funds required to complete the facility amidst reported funding challenges leading to project delays.

    In a March 7, 2024 interview on Onua FM, Kusi Boateng emphasized the importance of considering the advantages that the completed National Cathedral would bring to the nation.

    He stated, “If we could raise an amount of US$200 million to US$250 million, the National Cathedral will be completed. Let’s look at the advantages the Cathedral will bring to Ghana and its financial benefits. As a nation, God has blessed us, we need to come together and thank Him.”

    He added that comparatively, the project would be less expensive than a similar one in the United States, pointing out that Ghana’s edifice will also boast of more attractive facilities.

    Comparatively, he highlighted that the project’s cost would be less than a similar one in the United States while featuring more attractive facilities.

    Kusi Boateng pointed out, “Washington Museum in construction cost US$600 million but after the completion of the Cathedral, Ghana shall have a Bible museum of Africa that will in terms of space, content and technology be higher than the American Museum that cost them US$600 million.

    “All costs together our Cathedral, Biblical Museum, Biblical Gardens is just around $300 million, and ours is bigger than the American Bible Museum that costs $600 million.

    Furthermore, Kusi Boateng dismissed claims made by Member of Parliament Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who has raised concerns about the project’s legality and alleged corruption.

    Ablakwa has been vocal about demanding accountability for the use of public resources in the cathedral project, citing issues related to corporate governance breaches, financial impropriety, and identity fraud within the project’s Board of Trustees.

    “If you look in-depth into the data, you realise that although US$300 million is money but compared to the US$600 million, we’ve done well,” he stressed

  • No gov’t projects for Akosombo Dam spillage victims has taken place – Ablakwa

    No gov’t projects for Akosombo Dam spillage victims has taken place – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has stated that victims of the Akosombo Dam Spillage have yet to receive benefits from the government’s allocation of GHC80 million.

    President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo reiterated the government’s commitment to assisting the victims during the 67th Independence Day celebration in Koforidua.

    He announced that GH¢80 million, out of the allocated GH¢220 million, has been released to support ongoing rehabilitation efforts in the affected communities.

    The President emphasized, “Government will stop at nothing to restore normalcy to the lives and livelihoods of all affected persons.”

    During an interview with the media, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa acknowledged that he has not yet seen any government initiatives benefiting the victims of the Akosombo Dam Spillage.

    Despite this, he remains hopeful that the released funds will be effectively utilized for their intended purpose.

    “We welcome the news but I will cautiously say that let us see the results of that. There’s been so many promises by the president and we don’t see it on the grounds.”

    “So far I cannot confirm to you that I have seen any government project taking place on the grounds. It’s news we will welcome but I will be cautious because of the track record of this government and hope that that announcement of release of funds would translate on the ground,” he said.

  • Quickly publish findings of investigations into National Cathedral project – Ablakwa to CHRAJ

    Quickly publish findings of investigations into National Cathedral project – Ablakwa to CHRAJ

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to swiftly publish the findings of its investigations into the National Cathedral project.

    Mr Ablakwa’s request comes amidst growing concerns over the handling of the project, particularly regarding transparency and accountability in its execution.

    Mr. Ablakwa in January 2023 petitioned CHRAJ under Article 218 of the 1992 Constitution to investigate an alleged transfer of GH¢2.6million cash from the National Cathedral Secretariat to JNS Talent Centre Limited, a company he said belongs to Rev. Kusi Boateng.

    He also alleged a conflict of interest and possession of multiple identities by Rev. Kusi Boateng.

    CHRAJ, in a letter signed by the Director of Anti-Corruption, Stephen Azantilow, acknowledged receipt of the petition on Wednesday, January 18.

    “I am directed to acknowledge receipt of your complaint on the above subject matter lodged with the Commission on the 16th of January 2023 and to inform you that it is receiving attention,” the statement read.

    It has been over a year and the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) is yet to make public its findings on the subject matter.

    Presently, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has called on President Akufo-Addo to immediately dissolve the Board of Trustees for the National Cathedral project.

    The current members on the Board include prominent religious figures such as Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, and Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra.

    The MP also wants the National Cathedral Secretariat to be immediately closed after receiving GHS225,962,500.

    He wants “the Board of Trustees and the National Cathedral Secretariat account for all private donations so far received, particularly their infamous US operations.”

    “All those responsible for this gross financial loss to the state must be prosecuted with immediate effect,” he added.

    This comes after a confrontation between MPs and officials of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) with Ghana Armed Forces personnel while attempting to access the National Cathedral site on March 6, 2024 over delay in its completion.

    The National Cathedral, a $100-million inter-denominational project, was scheduled for completion before the commissioning date, March 6, as stated by then-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta during the 2021 mid-year budget review in Parliament.

    However, a heavy security presence surrounded the cathedral on Wednesday, leading to a clash with MPs near the new Electoral Commission head office. Both the Ghana Police Service and the military had set up barricades, restricting access to the cathedral site.

    Nonetheless, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa symbolically “commissioned” the uncompleted National Cathedral project, highlighting what he perceived as the government’s failure to finish the project.

    Following the ceremony, he presented a number of requests to the President with regards to the stalled project.

    Mr Ablakwa wants an explanation from President Akufo-Addo on why he failed to fulfill his promise to God, to Parliament and to the sovereign Ghanaian people — the promise to commission his US$450million (GHS5.7billion) “priority of priorities” cathedral.

    He is demanding full accountability on what happened to the US$58,141,509.52 (GHS740million) and “why all we see here is the world’s most expensive pit and why the contractors, RIBADE JV abandoned the project for lack of payment 2 years ago.”

    The others are as follows; A comprehensive report on how much it has cost the state to so far replace and compensate some owners of demolished properties, and how much is still outstanding considering that aggrieved demolished property owners such as Waterstone Realty have resorted to the courts. We note that the following properties were recklessly demolished on the orders of President Akufo-Addo: Bungalows for Judges, Judicial Training Institute, Passport Head Office, Scholarship Secretariat, Bungalows for CHRAJ, Waterstone Realty Luxury Apartment Complex, Headquarters of Comsys IT Firm and the Malian Ambassador’s Residence.

    Contract must be immediately terminated to avoid further financial loss to the state. According to the contract, Ghana will have to pay Extension of Time Claims, Standing Time Claims, Abortive & Re-Works Cost due to Main Contractor Suspension.

    Retrievals from the following persons: David Adjaye — US$19.6million (GHS250million) Cary Summers — US$6million (GHS76million) Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng/Kwabena Adu Gyamfi — GHS2.6million.

    Publication of the Deloitte audit which was promised on 24th January, 2023 — more than a year ago.

    Mr Ablakwa has entreated the NPP Caucus in Parliament to desist from sabotaging the impending Parliamentary Probe after a unanimous parliamentary resolution.

    “The NPP’s unpatriotic conduct by deliberately delaying the submission of names of their members to the Rt. Hon. Speaker for the committee to commence work is most condemnable,” he added.

    Mr Ablakwa has again made a clarion call for a national debate leading to a possible national consensus on what should happen to the “world’s most expensive pit moving forward.”

    “Some have suggested a specialist children’s hospital which Ghana currently lacks, we also note that recently the Secretary-General of the TUC, Dr Anthony Yaw Baah suggested the place be converted to a hospital,” he added.

  • Ablakwa’s 11 demands to Akufo-Addo over ‘abandoned’ National Cathedral project

    Ablakwa’s 11 demands to Akufo-Addo over ‘abandoned’ National Cathedral project

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made 11 demands to President Akufo-Addo regarding the “abandoned” National Cathedral project.

    Ablakwa’s demands come amidst a confrontation between MPs and officials of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) with Ghana Armed Forces personnel while attempting to access the National Cathedral site.

    This incident occurred following the government’s announcement that the project would be commissioned on March 6, 2024, but that was not the case.

    Below are Mr Ablakwa’s demands.

    1. An explanation from President Akufo-Addo on why he failed to fulfill his promise to God, to Parliament and to the sovereign Ghanaian people — the promise to commission his US$450million (GHS5.7billion) “priority of priorities” cathedral today the 6th of March 2024;

    2. Full accountability on what happened to our US$58,141,509.52 (GHS740million) why all we see here is the world’s most expensive pit and why the contractors, RIBADE JV abandoned the project for lack of payment 2 years ago;

    3. A comprehensive report on how much it has cost the state to so far replace and compensate some owners of demolished properties, and how much is still outstanding considering that aggrieved demolished property owners such as Waterstone Realty have resorted to the courts. We note that the following properties were recklessly demolished on the orders of President Akufo-Addo: Bungalows for Judges, Judicial Training Institute, Passport Head Office, Scholarship Secretariat, Bungalows for CHRAJ, Waterstone Realty Luxury Apartment Complex, Headquarters of Comsys IT Firm and the Malian Ambassador’s Residence;

    4. Contract must be immediately terminated to avoid further financial loss to the state. According to the contract, Ghana will have to pay Extension of Time Claims, Standing Time Claims, Abortive & Re-Works Cost due to Main Contractor Suspension;

    5. Board of Trustees must be dissolved without delay;

    6. National Cathedral Secretariat should be immediately closed. So far this secretariat has received GHS225,962,500. (Refer to organogram as attached)

    7. Retrievals from the following persons: David Adjaye — US$19.6million (GHS250million) Cary Summers — US$6million (GHS76million) Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng/Kwabena Adu Gyamfi — GHS2.6million

    8. Publication of the Deloitte audit which was promised on 24th January, 2023 — more than a year ago;

    9. That the Board of Trustees and the National Cathedral Secretariat account for all private donations so far received, particularly their infamous US operations.

    10. All those responsible for this gross financial loss to the state must be prosecuted with immediate effect.

    11. A national debate leading to a possible national consensus on what should happen to the world’s most expensive pit moving forward. Some have suggested a specialist children’s hospital which Ghana currently lacks, we also note that recently the Secretary-General of the TUC, Dr Anthony Yaw Baah suggested the place be converted to a hospital.

  • Dissolve Board of Trustees for National Cathedral project – Ablakwa tells Akufo-Addo

    Dissolve Board of Trustees for National Cathedral project – Ablakwa tells Akufo-Addo

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called on President Akufo-Addo to immediately dissolve the Board of Trustees for the National Cathedral project.

    The current members on the Board include prominent religious figures such as Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, and Most Rev. Charles Palmer Buckle, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra.

    The MP also wants the National Cathedral Secretariat to be immediately closed after receiving GHS225,962,500.

    He wants “the Board of Trustees and the National Cathedral Secretariat account for all private donations so far received, particularly their infamous US operations.”

    “All those responsible for this gross financial loss to the state must be prosecuted with immediate effect,” he added.

    This comes after a confrontation between MPs and officials of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) with Ghana Armed Forces personnel while attempting to access the National Cathedral site on March 6, 2024 over delay in its completion.

    The National Cathedral, a $100-million inter-denominational project, was scheduled for completion before the commissioning date, March 6, as stated by then-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta during the 2021 mid-year budget review in Parliament.

    However, a heavy security presence surrounded the cathedral on Wednesday, leading to a clash with MPs near the new Electoral Commission head office. Both the Ghana Police Service and the military had set up barricades, restricting access to the cathedral site.

    Nonetheless, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa symbolically “commissioned” the uncompleted National Cathedral project, highlighting what he perceived as the government’s failure to finish the project.

    Following the ceremony, he presented a number of requests to the President with regards to the stalled project.

    Mr Ablakwa wants an explanation from President Akufo-Addo on why he failed to fulfill his promise to God, to Parliament and to the sovereign Ghanaian people — the promise to commission his US$450million (GHS5.7billion) “priority of priorities” cathedral.

    He is demanding full accountability on what happened to the US$58,141,509.52 (GHS740million) and “why all we see here is the world’s most expensive pit and why the contractors, RIBADE JV abandoned the project for lack of payment 2 years ago.”

    The others are as follows; A comprehensive report on how much it has cost the state to so far replace and compensate some owners of demolished properties, and how much is still outstanding considering that aggrieved demolished property owners such as Waterstone Realty have resorted to the courts. We note that the following properties were recklessly demolished on the orders of President Akufo-Addo: Bungalows for Judges, Judicial Training Institute, Passport Head Office, Scholarship Secretariat, Bungalows for CHRAJ, Waterstone Realty Luxury Apartment Complex, Headquarters of Comsys IT Firm and the Malian Ambassador’s Residence.

    Contract must be immediately terminated to avoid further financial loss to the state. According to the contract, Ghana will have to pay Extension of Time Claims, Standing Time Claims, Abortive & Re-Works Cost due to Main Contractor Suspension.

    Retrievals from the following persons: David Adjaye — US$19.6million (GHS250million) Cary Summers — US$6million (GHS76million) Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng/Kwabena Adu Gyamfi — GHS2.6million.

    Publication of the Deloitte audit which was promised on 24th January, 2023 — more than a year ago.

    Mr Ablakwa has entreated the NPP Caucus in Parliament to desist from sabotaging the impending Parliamentary Probe after a unanimous parliamentary resolution.

    “The NPP’s unpatriotic conduct by deliberately delaying the submission of names of their members to the Rt. Hon. Speaker for the committee to commence work is most condemnable,” he added.

    Meanwhile, he has appealed to the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to expedite action and publish the outcome of their investigations following his January 16, 2023 petition.

    Mr Ablakwa has again made a clarion call for a national debate leading to a possible national consensus on what should happen to the “world’s most expensive pit moving forward.”

    “Some have suggested a specialist children’s hospital which Ghana currently lacks, we also note that recently the Secretary-General of the TUC, Dr Anthony Yaw Baah suggested the place be converted to a hospital,” he added.

  • Ablakwa, Sam George, other MPs face off with military at National Cathedral site

    Ablakwa, Sam George, other MPs face off with military at National Cathedral site

    Members of Parliament (MPs) and officials of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) were involved in a confrontation with Ghana Armed Forces personnel while attempting to access the National Cathedral site.

    This incident occurred following the government’s announcement that the project would be commissioned on March 6, 2024.

    The National Cathedral, a $100-million inter-denominational project, was scheduled for completion before the commissioning date, as stated by then-Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta during the 2021 mid-year budget review in Parliament.

    However, heavy security presence surrounded the cathedral, leading to the clash with MPs near the new Electoral Commission head office. Both the Ghana Police Service and the Military had set up barricades, restricting access to the cathedral site.

    In response to the situation, the MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, symbolically “commissioned” the uncompleted National Cathedral project, highlighting what he perceived as the government’s failure to finish the project.

    Minister Ofori-Atta reiterated in 2021 that the government would officially commission the ongoing National Cathedral project on Ghana’s 67th Independence Day, March 6, 2024, using the date as a significant occasion for the ceremony.

    When delivering the Mid-year Budget Review, the Finance Minister said, “Work on the National Cathedral is progressing speedily.”

    “Upon completion, the National Cathedral would provide a sacred space for formal religious activities of State and symbolise the enormous contribution of faith to Nation Building,” he added.

  • Ablakwa, Sammy Gyamfi lead NDC MPs to ‘commission’ uncompleted National Cathedral to mock govt

    Ablakwa, Sammy Gyamfi lead NDC MPs to ‘commission’ uncompleted National Cathedral to mock govt

    Opposition Members of Parliament, led by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, employed a satirical approach by staging a symbolic commissioning of the unfinished National Cathedral project.

    Their aim was to spotlight what they perceive as the government’s failure to complete the project.

    Initially, their efforts to access the construction site were obstructed by security personnel, preventing them from issuing a statement at the location.

    Originally scheduled for commissioning on March 6, as mentioned by former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta in the 2021 budget statement, the cathedral has drawn criticism, particularly from minority MPs dissatisfied with its costs.

    Despite being denied access to the site, the minority MPs reached a compromise with security personnel to hold a press conference at the entrance, expressing their discontent with the ongoing project and its expenses.

    This symbolic act of commissioning the incomplete National Cathedral highlighted their critique of the government’s handling of the project.

    “When the act of parliament had to grind on him [Ofori-Atta], he had to come and beg. Your instructions are that we should not enter, we will not enter, we will stand at the entrance,” Sam George, MP for Ningo-Prampram, said.

    Subsequently, they symbolically initiated the commissioning of the cathedral by performing a sod-cutting ceremony on behalf of the president.
    “We commission this expensive hole on behalf of Dr. Bawumia, President Akufo-Addo and Ken Ofori-Atta.”

  • They are still being paid – Ablakwa blows cover on National Cathedral board members

    They are still being paid – Ablakwa blows cover on National Cathedral board members

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made allegations that members of the Board of the National Cathedral Project continue to receive payments from public funds.

    During an interview on TV XYZ on March 5, 2024, prior to his planned media engagement at the purportedly ‘abandoned’ site of the project, Ablakwa also advocated for the dissolution of the National Cathedral Board.

    “We are all going to see the world’s most expensive pit and we will be engaging the media and serving a clear notice that all these people keeping our money must prepare to refund our money.

    “That whole National Cathedral secretariat must be dissolved. The board must be dissolved. Tomorrow, I will reveal monies that are still being paid to the board—all of them; they are still being paid,” he alleged.

    The Member of Parliament is scheduled to address the press today, March 6, 2024, at 2 pm, as indicated by a flyer shared on his social media platforms.

    Accompanying his post was a caption stating his intention to engage with the media at what he termed the “World’s Most Expensive Pit,” on the same day President Akufo-Addo vowed to inaugurate his US$450 million (GHS5.7 billion) legacy cathedral, which he deems the “priority of all priorities.”

    However, the official project handle has labelled Ablakwa’s media appearance as ‘fake.’

    Ablakwa has been prominently vocal among lawmakers, demanding transparency concerning the use of public funds for the cathedral project.

    He has highlighted corporate governance breaches, financial irregularities, and identity fraud within the project’s Board of Trustees through social media posts.

    His press engagement coincides with social media mockery directed at the government, referencing a screenshot of former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s statement during a budget presentation, suggesting that the project would be inaugurated on March 6, 2024.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BYX5um2ZSw4

    The project’s progress has been hindered by funding challenges, and the speculated inauguration date remains unconfirmed.

  • Why did you support Alan if you are proud of Bawumia? – Ablakwa asks Abena Osei-Asare

    Why did you support Alan if you are proud of Bawumia? – Ablakwa asks Abena Osei-Asare

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has questioned the rationality of Abena Osei-Asare, the Minister of State-designate at the Ministry of Finance over her recent political remark about government.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, while debating the State of the Nation Address, Abena Osei-Asare noted that she is proud of President Akufo-Addo and his Vice, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia for the good work done to ensure the economy stays afloat.

    But Mr Ablakwa holds the assertion that such a remark cannot be taken seriously, especially when Abena Osei-Asare decided to support another presidential candidate instead of Dr Bawumia during the NPP’s flagbearership race.

    Abena Osei-Asare threw her weight behind former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen before his exit from the party.

    Mr Ablakwa said if indeed Abena Osei-Asare was indeed proud of the Vice President, her support would have been directed towards him and not another candidate.

    “I’ve been left totally shocked, dumbfounded, listening to my good friend Honourable Abena tell us that she felt so proud listening to this president and proud working with the chair of the Economic Management team, the now infamous mate or Aplanke as Sam George will call him in GA.

    “I’ve been asking myself, if the Honourable Deputy Minister for Finance now Minister of State designate felt so proud about this team, why did we see her in the news joining the Honourable Alan Kyerematen to go and pick forms to contest the Vice President who she says she is so proud of,” he said while speaking on the floor of Parliament.

    In September 2023, Abena Osei-Asare, has distanced herself from the decision taken by former New Patriotic Party (NPP), presidential aspirant, Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen, to run as an independent candidate.

    Abena Osei-Asare, one of the supporters of Mr Kyerematen acknowledged the personal and professional relationship she has with him but emphasized that her “dedication to the New Patriotic Party is deep-seated, and rooted” in their shared values.

  • Providing breakdown of $48m budget for 13th African Games after tournament unreasonable – Ablakwa to LOC

    Providing breakdown of $48m budget for 13th African Games after tournament unreasonable – Ablakwa to LOC

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has slammed the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 13th African Games for stating that it would only be able to account for the $48 million operational budget for the hosting of the games when all is said and done.

    Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 13th African Games has admitted that the government of Ghana has allocated an amount of $48 million as the operational budget for the hosting and organisation of the Games.

    The LOC made this public following the release of some documents by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa ahead of the games.

    Despite admitting to this, the LOC has noted that it cannot make public details of what comprises the $48 million budgeted for presently.

    “Secondly, the $48m quoted in the letter leaked by Hon. Ablakwa as the operational budget for the hosting and organisation of the Games goes into recurrent expenditure, and the LOC will be in a better position to give a breakdown when the Games are over,” the LOC said in a statement.

    In response, Mr Ablakwa in a Facebook post noted that “it is most bizarre for the LOC to state in its third paragraph that they can only provide a breakdown of the US$48million (GHS602million) when the games are over.”

    “The logical question that arises is how they came to the conclusion that they need US$48million if they do not have a breakdown?” he further quizzed.

    The LOC has noted that the operational budget of the LOC cannot be limited to the 18-day period of the Games as hosting pan-continental competitions such as the iconic African Games comes with significant investment but also, with enduring country-impacting benefits.

    “The impression created by Hon. Ablakwa that the sum of USD$48m will be spent within the period spanning 8th-23rd March is an erroneous and disingenuous ploy to divert the attention of Ghanaians from the excellent work done by the Government of Ghana and the LOC to organise and host the 13th African Games. This is the first time Ghana is getting the opportunity to host the most significant sporting tournament in Africa since it was first established in 1965,” it added.

    The LOC continued: “It must be noted however, that hosting 54 African countries comes with huge cost implications in the areas of Medical and Anti-doping, Transport, Accommodation, Catering. Branding, Games Management System. Team Ghana preparation, Broadcasting and Equipment for 29 sporting disciplines among others.”

    According to Mr Ablakwa, “this staggering US$48 million is an entirely different amount from the mega US$195 million (GHS2.4 billion) already spent on infrastructure for the games.”

    “At the prevailing exchange rate, US$48 million is equivalent to a colossal GHS602 million,” he added.

    In his recent statement, Mr Ablakwa noted that LOC has “disingenuously” avoided a response to the fundamental concern of proceeding to spend GHS602 million when Parliament approved GHS100 million.

    He has assured that Parliament will hold the Local Organising Committee (LOC) accountable.

  • We will give breakdown of $48m when 13th African Games is over – LOC

    We will give breakdown of $48m when 13th African Games is over – LOC

    Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 13th African Games has admitted that the government of Ghana has allocated an amount of $48 million as the operational budget for the hosting and organisation of the Games.

    The LOC made this public following the release of some documents by Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa ahead of the games.

    In a social media post dated February 26, 2024, Mr Ablakwa stated that the three entities have agreed to spend a significant and unjustifiable US$48 million on “operational expenses” for the 13th African Games, scheduled to be hosted in Ghana from March 5 to March 23, 2024.

    Despite admitting to this, the LOC has noted that it cannot make public details of what comprises the $48 million budgeted for presently.

    “Secondly, the $48m quoted in the letter leaked by Hon. Ablakwa as the operational budget for the hosting and organisation of the Games goes into recurrent expenditure, and the LOC will be in a better position to give a breakdown when the Games are over,” the LOC said in a statement.

    The LOC noted that the operational budget of the LOC cannot be limited to the 18-day period of the Games as hosting pan-continental competitions such as the iconic African Games comes with significant investment but also, with enduring country-impacting benefits.

    “The impression created by Hon. Ablakwa that the sum of USD$48m will be spent within the period spanning 8th-23rd March is an erroneous and disingenuous ploy to divert the attention of Ghanaians from the excellent work done by the Government of Ghana and the LOC to organise and host the 13th African Games. This is the first time Ghana is getting the opportunity to host the most significant sporting tournament in Africa since it was first established in 1965,” it added.

    The LOC continued: “It must be noted however, that hosting 54 African countries comes with huge cost implications in the areas of Medical and Anti-doping, Transport, Accommodation, Catering. Branding, Games Management System. Team Ghana preparation, Broadcasting and Equipment for 29 sporting disciplines among others.”

    According to Mr Ablakwa, “this staggering US$48 million is an entirely different amount from the mega US$195 million (GHS2.4 billion) already spent on infrastructure for the games.”

    “At the prevailing exchange rate, US$48 million is equivalent to a colossal GHS602 million,” he added.

  • I wish I did more for Atta Mills when he was alive – Ablakwa

    I wish I did more for Atta Mills when he was alive – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed regret over not doing more for his political mentor, the late President John Evans Atta Mills, while he was alive.

    “I wish I even did more for President Atta Mills,” he said in an interview on Accra-based TV3’s Hot Issues programme.

    Mr Ablakwa, who transitioned from student leadership to politics and served as a deputy minister during Atta Mills’ presidency, spoke about the profound impact Mills had on his political perspective.

    He shared that he named his son after Mills as a tribute to the late president.

    “That’s why I named my son after him. I have no regrets for defending the interest of my party,” Ablakwa emphasized.

    The late Evans Atta Mills governed Ghana from 2009 to 2012 until his untimely demise. John Evans Fiifi Atta Mills, the former President of Ghana, passed away on July 24, 2012.

    During the presidency of John Evans Atta Mills, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa served as a Deputy Minister. He was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Information in 2009.

    On the show, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, used the opportunity to deny claims that he owned fuel stations during his early days as a politician and that he flew abroad every weekend for schooling during the Atta-Mills government.

    “I’m not a businessman; I don’t own any filling stations. I never flew abroad every weekend; how could one do that under the modest Prof. Mills? They don’t provide any evidence. I’m glad time has vindicated me,” he submitted.

    The topic of Ablakwa schooling abroad resurfaced recently when some social media users affiliated with the government brought it up to counter Ablakwa’s anti-corruption publications.

  • All African Games: Govt to spend $48 million for a 18-day event – Ablakwa

    All African Games: Govt to spend $48 million for a 18-day event – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has released documents alleging that the government is overspending its operational expenses budget by approximately 500% of the amount approved by Parliament for preparations for the 13th All African Games.

    He accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the games of being complicit in the inflated expenditure.

    In a social media post dated February 26, 2024, Mr Ablakwa stated that the three entities have agreed to spend a significant and unjustifiable US$48 million on “operational expenses” for the 13th African Games, scheduled to be hosted in Ghana from March 5 to March 23, 2024.

    “It must be noted that this staggering US$48 million is an entirely different amount from the mega US$195 million (GHS2.4 billion) already spent on infrastructure for the games.

    “At the prevailing exchange rate, US$48 million is equivalent to a colossal GHS602 million,” he added.

    Mr Ablakwa also revealed details of a fundraiser organized by the presidency for the games, highlighting his concerns about the appropriateness of this action.

    He has indicated that the Minister of Youth and Sports will be summoned to appear before parliament this week to provide explanations regarding the expenditure related to the games.

  • I didn’t own filling stations under “modest” Prof. Mills’ govt – Ablakwa

    I didn’t own filling stations under “modest” Prof. Mills’ govt – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has denied claims that he owned fuel stations during his early days as a politician and that he flew abroad every weekend for schooling during the Atta-Mills government.

    He addressed these issues in an interview on Accra-based TV3’s Hot Issues programme, where he discussed various topics including politics, governance, corruption, and his personal life.

    “I’m not a businessman; I don’t own any filling stations. I never flew abroad every weekend; how could one do that under the modest Prof. Mills? They don’t provide any evidence. I’m glad time has vindicated me,” he submitted.

    The topic of Ablakwa schooling abroad resurfaced recently when some social media users affiliated with the government brought it up to counter Ablakwa’s anti-corruption publications.

    Ablakwa, who was once a student leader, transitioned into politics after being appointed as a deputy minister during Atta Mills’ presidency. He later became a Member of Parliament and has since held onto the North Tongu seat.

    Regarding his relationship with his political mentor, the late John Evans Atta Mills, he expressed that he named his son after Mills due to the profound impact Mills had on his political perspective.

    “I wish I even did more for President Atta Mills. That’s why I named my son after him. I have no regrets for defending the interest of my party,” he emphasized.