Deputy Health Minister Alexander Akwasi Acquah has defended Dr. Osei Kwame Despite, CEO of Despite Media Group, against criticisms related to a past blood donation initiative. Acquah commended Despite’s efforts to organize the blood drive, which aimed to help patients in dire need of blood at hospitals.
Acquah criticized allegations that the blood donation was intended for monetary rituals, calling such claims inappropriate. In a press briefing, he labeled the derogatory comments as “nonsense,” suggesting that they were meant to undermine the business tycoon’s contributions.
“The government can’t handle everything alone. Initiatives like these attract wealthy individuals who want to give back to society. It’s absurd for anyone to claim ‘he [Kwame Despite] is collecting the blood for money,’ and for us to remain silent while these baseless accusations spread. This kind of talk discourages other well-meaning Ghanaians from getting involved,” Acquah stated.
He noted that severe public criticism has dissuaded prominent individuals from organizing similar blood donation events and urged the public to move away from such negativity.
“Kwame Despite and his family would use the blood if needed. But look at the service they’ve provided—using their media outlets free of charge. We need to challenge and dispel these myths,” he added.
Back in 2018, Despite’s media organizations held a community blood donation event. However, some people advised against participating, claiming the blood would be used for rituals. Acquah has now strongly condemned these harmful and unfounded remarks.