The ongoing demonstration against the sale of four Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels has taken a spiritual turn, with the La Wulomo, Nuumo Yemoh Obroni VIII, and several Ga traditional authorities joining the protest.
Led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for North Tongu, the demonstration aims to compel President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to prevent the sale of these hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, owned by Ghana’s Minister of Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
During the early stages of the protest, the La Wulomo performed a traditional libation ceremony. An interpreter at the scene reported that the Ga Wulomo invoked curses on government officials involved in the alleged illegal conversion of state facilities and resources.
Ablakwa, addressing the media, reiterated the protesters’ determination: “It has become the whole of Ghana versus the few lootocrats who are determined to continue with their state capture, and I am clear in my mind that they will have no choice but to listen. Even if you don’t listen and you try to sell this hotel, how are they going to have access to the hotel? How? Because we will block that access. These are our assets, and we are saying you haven’t consulted us.”
He also stated confidently, “Rest assured, we are confident these hotels will not be sold.”
The protest, which began today, Tuesday, June 18, has attracted hundreds of Ghanaians, demonstrating the widespread opposition to the sale.