Former Auditor-General, Daniel Yao Domelevo, has praised Organised Labour for their resolute opposition to the Social Security and National Insurance Trust’s (SSNIT) plan to sell a 60% stake in four hotels.
During an interview on Channel One TV, Domelevo highlighted Organised Labour’s steadfast dedication to blocking the sale of the hotels.
“I follow all those developments with keen interest, and I must say kudos to Organised Labour for standing their ground against what I think is not right. If you’re doing something on my behalf which is right, I think it’s proper to consult me, such that I know that you’re securing my interest”he stated.
Mr. Domelevo also pointed out that without North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa revealing the government’s plan, members of Organised Labour would have been disadvantaged.
He called the government’s decision to sell its assets to a Cabinet Minister “unusual.”
The former Auditor-General also encouraged institutions such as Organised Labour to stay firm in demanding accountability from public officials.
“So, if these things were not revealed by Ablakwa, otherwise, before you realised, it has been sold. And I find it very strange that a government will sell government property to a member of the government.
“I don’t know where we’re on conflict of interest and how we’re respecting the provision under Article 284, which says a public officer should not put himself or herself into a position whereby his personal interests would conflict with the work that he/she does. I find it a bit strange and kudos to Organised Labour, I think we need a bit more of that to hold people accountable,” he said.
Regarding the delay by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) in publishing its investigation report on the petition submitted by Ablakwa, Domelevo criticized enforcement agencies for their lack of responsiveness to public concerns.
“I don’t think it is impatient of the general public, I think the enforcement agencies are really insensitive to the public. I believe everybody has heard of this saying that justice delayed is justice denied. But even in the court of law, just as CHRAJ is also doing, it is the same thing. Issues of national interest go to court, CHRAJ or enforcement agencies and it takes us forever,” he said.