Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has disclosed a list of assets that he claims to have prevented the Akufo-Addo-led government from selling, citing concerns over state capture.
Among the notable instances cited by Mr. Ablakwa is his recent intervention in preventing the sale of a 60% stake in four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel, a private firm linked to Ghana’s Food and Agriculture Minister, Bryan Acheampong.
The sale was halted following strong objections from Organised Labour after Mr. Ablakwa raised alarms about the transaction involving a public service officer.
In addition to the hotel stake, Mr. Ablakwa highlighted several other assets he claims to have safeguarded from sale or questionable dealings:
- Land belonging to the Nigerian High Commission, which he alleges was targeted for a midnight demolition operation by unidentified actors.
- Land owned by the Bulgarian Embassy, allegedly subject to clandestine demolition efforts by high-ranking political appointees under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.
- Parks and Gardens Land in Cantonments and Wa.
- Airport Lands implicated in the Heaven Scandal.
- Successful prevention of attempts to demolish the Accra International Conference Centre.
- Preservation efforts concerning prominent hotels such as Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Resort, Elmina Beach Hotel, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Hotel, and Trust Lodge.
- Labadi Beach Hotel
- La Palm Royal Resort
- Elmina Beach Hotel
- Ridge Royal Hotel
- Busua Beach Hotel
- Trust Lodge.
Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that these actions are just the beginning of his efforts to combat what he perceives as state capture, urging continued vigilance and activism in reclaiming public assets for the benefit of all Ghanaians.
“This is just the beginning — may these modest gains inspire us not to give up until we have reclaimed the rest,” Mr. Ablakwa stated, underscoring his commitment to combating alleged instances of state capture in Ghana.
The disclosures by Mr. Ablakwa have ignited public debate and scrutiny over governance and transparency in asset management within the Akufo-Addo administration.
Mr. Ablakwa continues to advocate for greater oversight and integrity in government dealings.