TIG Post

Tag: Ablakwa

  • Dec 7 must come quickly! – Ablakwa reacts to Hadzide’s US visa, exeat ‘criminal’ promises to voters

    Dec 7 must come quickly! – Ablakwa reacts to Hadzide’s US visa, exeat ‘criminal’ promises to voters

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has voiced strong criticism against Pius Hadzide, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate for Asuogyaman, following remarks Hadzide made about facilitating travel for constituents to the United States.

    Ablakwa took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his concerns, describing Hadzide’s comments as emblematic of deeper issues within the current administration.

    In his post, Ablakwa highlighted four key takeaways from what he referred to as the “disgraceful Pius Hadzide saga.”

    He emphasized that corrupt officials, once cleared of wrongdoing, often become emboldened to commit further crimes.

    “When a President clears his corrupt appointees, they will surely expose him,” Ablakwa remarked, suggesting that Hadzide’s actions could result in damaging consequences for Ghana’s international reputation.

    Ablakwa also drew attention to the broader implications of Hadzide’s statements, particularly the impact on Ghanaians applying for visas.

    “Embassies are keenly following these reckless confessions from corrupt NPP officials,” he wrote, cautioning that genuine applicants may face increased scrutiny due to the “criminal visa racketeering” allegedly promoted by the ruling party.

    The controversy stems from a campaign promise made by Hadzide at a recent event, where he assured supporters that if elected, he would leverage his connections to help young people travel abroad for the 2026 World Cup in the United States.

    “If you, Nananom, desire for your children to travel to America to work and send money back home… I promise to support you when I become MP,” Hadzide said, also promising similar opportunities to destinations such as Germany, the UK, and France.

    Despite backlash, Hadzide has defended his remarks, stating that there is nothing wrong with offering such opportunities to his constituents. He pointed to his experience in the sports sector, claiming that it equips him to facilitate international travel for young people.

    Ablakwa, however, criticized the NPP candidate’s statements as emblematic of the government’s failures.

    “As CEO of the National Youth Authority under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, he confirms openly and unashamedly that they have no solutions to the misery, joblessness, and hopelessness they have created for the Ghanaian youth,” Ablakwa wrote.

    The North Tongu MP concluded his post with a call for change in the upcoming elections: “How did Ghana get here? December 7 must come quickly!”

    As the debate unfolds, Hadzide’s promises have raised questions about the responsibilities and boundaries of campaign pledges, particularly in light of the visa-related concerns voiced by critics like Ablakwa.

  • Akosombo Dam spillage: Ablakwa allocates GHS100K to support victims’ rent

    Akosombo Dam spillage: Ablakwa allocates GHS100K to support victims’ rent

    Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, has established a GH¢100,000 emergency rent fund to provide housing support to the victims of the Akosombo dam spillage, which occurred in October 2023.

    The aim is to help displaced residents find accommodation as they continue to face the aftermath of the disaster.

    Ablakwa highlighted that this fund is part of a broader plan to ensure that all 12,000 affected individuals are resettled and fully compensated.

    He made this announcement after filing his nomination to run in the upcoming elections.

    In his remarks, he stressed that his focus for the next term will be on the comprehensive resettlement and compensation of victims from the Akosombo and Kpong dam spillages.

    He pointed out that 1,360 constituents are still living in tents, a situation he called “inhumane” and unacceptable.

    As part of his immediate response, Ablakwa has allocated GH¢100,000 for emergency rent assistance, prioritizing women, especially nursing mothers, who are still without proper shelter.

    “For my next term, my priority will be the total resettlement and total compensation of all victims of the VRA spillage from the Akosumbo and Kpong Dams. As we speak, 1,360 of our fellow constituents, my beloved constituents, remain in tents and that is unacceptable. That is inhumane.

    “That cannot be allowed. And so in my next term, I am going to dedicate all efforts towards the full and total comprehensive resettlement and compensation of all victims, the over 12,000 victims of the VRA spillage.

    “I am putting aside GH¢100,000 as emergency rent support for our brothers and sisters who are still in the tents. But we are prioritising the women, particularly nursing mothers.”

  • We eagerly await outcome of IGP’s investigations of GIS land ‘state capture’ – Ablakwa

    We eagerly await outcome of IGP’s investigations of GIS land ‘state capture’ – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed anticipation for the outcome of the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) investigation into the alleged ‘state capture’ of Ghana International School (GIS) land.

    Ablakwa’s comments come amid remarks made by the Office of the President about claims that “Management and security personnel of Ghana International School have been compelled to use its school buses as a blockade to prevent an illegal takeover of their land in Cantonments following last Saturday’s foiled 2am invasion.”

    The Office of the President says it has formally requested the IGP to investigate the entire matter, urging the public to “disregard as false any statements to the contrary.”

    Mr Ablakwa, whose earlier remarks prompted a response from the Office of the President alleged that GIS is “hurriedly erecting a fence wall, hopefully as a more permanent solution,” and questioned, “How did Ghana get here? State Capture must and will be defeated!”

    On the matter, the Office of the President has clarified that Chief Superintendent Ibrahim Opoku of its VVIP unit “only chanced upon the 2am GIS attempted illegal land grab on his way from work.”

    The Office has insisted that “the Office of the President does NOT have any interest whatsoever in the piece of land in question” and that “no officer, agent or assign has been directed to secure and/or interfere in any matter pertaining to GIS land within Cantonments.”

    Furthermore, the Office explained that Chief Superintendent Opoku “did his professional duty by handing over alleged encroachers and suspects to the Cantonments Police Station” and “submitted his credentials at the police station, as he is enjoined to do, as part of standard operating procedure in such situations.”

  • GIS fighting ‘state capture’ by using school bus as blockade on its premises – Ablakwa claims

    GIS fighting ‘state capture’ by using school bus as blockade on its premises – Ablakwa claims

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised serious concerns about the alleged involvement of the Office of the President in a land dispute involving Ghana International School (GIS) in Cantonments.

    In a recent post on X, Mr Ablakwa revealed that “Management and security personnel of Ghana International School have been compelled to use its school buses as a blockade to prevent an illegal takeover of their land in Cantonments following last Saturday’s foiled 2am invasion.”

    He further noted that GIS is “hurriedly erecting a fence wall, hopefully as a more permanent solution,” and questioned, “How did Ghana get here? State Capture must and will be defeated!”

    In response to these allegations, the Office of the President has issued a statement addressing the matter. The Office refutes any involvement in the land dispute, stating that “the Office of the President does NOT have any interest whatsoever in the piece of land in question.”

    The statement clarifies that “no officer, agent or assign has been directed to secure and/or interfere in any matter pertaining to GIS land within Cantonments.”

    Additionally, the Office has explained that “the said Chief Superintendent Ibrahim Opoku of the VIP unit of the OOP did his professional duty by handing over alleged encroachers and suspects to the Cantonments Police Station when he chanced upon an altercation at the Cantonments barrier on his way from work.”

    It also notes that “the Chief Superintendent submitted his credentials at the police station, as he is enjoined to do, as part of standard operating procedure in such situations.”

    In light of these developments, the Office of the President has lodged a formal complaint with the Inspector General of Police, requesting an investigation into the entire matter.

    The Office urges the public to “disregard as false any statements to the contrary.”

  • Gabby Otchere-Darko’s wife named in Ablakwa’s state capture exposé

    Gabby Otchere-Darko’s wife named in Ablakwa’s state capture exposé

    North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has named Gabby Otchere-Darko’s wife in his latest exposé, intensifying his campaign for greater transparency and accountability.

    Ablakwa had earlier alleged that the headquarters of Asaase Broadcasting Company (ABC) in Accra was unlawfully acquired from state property. He claimed that the media house occupied a building that once belonged to the Judicial Service of Ghana and was improperly sold by the government.

    Asaase Broadcasting Company (ABC) swiftly rejected Ablakwa’s accusations. In a September 2, 2024 statement, the company labeled the allegations as “false and misleading,” insisting that Lilly Homes Limited lawfully acquired the property through proper channels.

    In response, Ablakwa has released further information, alleging that Lilly Homes Limited has ties to Nana Adjoa Hackman, wife of Gabby Otchere-Darko, who is the director of Asaase Radio.

    “My attention has been drawn to a rather evasive and disingenuous rebuttal from Asaase Broadcasting Company Limited. I offer the following responses:

    “1. Asaase Broadcasting Company Limited has woefully failed to point out any misleading claim in my earlier publication;

    “2. I vehemently denounce the desperate but futile efforts to characterize my parliamentary oversight duties as an effort that undermines the principles of truth and integrity;

    “3. As correctly indicated in my earlier publication, it is the Judicial Service of Ghana that has initiated legal action, wherein they state without equivocation that Number 7, 5th Circular Road at Cantonments belongs to the Judicial Service of Ghana,” he said in a post on X on September 4, 2024.

    According to him, Nana Adjoa Hackman is the sole shareholder of Lilly Homes Limited and also a director at Asaase Radio, raising concerns of conflict of interest.

    “8. Why is Asaase Broadcasting Company Limited desperately trying to erect an imaginary Chinese Wall between Asaase and Lilly Homes?

    “9. With Asaase Broadcasting Company Limited calling for truth and integrity, I would have expected full disclosure of the fact that a director and sole shareholder of Lilly Homes is Nana Adjoa Hackman, who is the wife of Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko.

    “They are both directors of Asaase Broadcasting Company Limited; 10. According to official incorporation documents, the directors of Asaase Broadcasting Company Limited are: Gabby Otchere-Darko, Nana Adjoa Hackman, Elizabeth Ohene, Reginald Laryea, Joseph Roberts-Mensah, Joseph Ofori-Atta, Charles Mensah, and Cecilia Balowu;

    “11. It is absolutely misleading and dishonest to create the impression that Lilly Homes and Asaase Broadcasting have no connection whatsoever, and that Asaase Broadcasting is merely a tenant,” he alleged.

    Ablakwa further pointed out that Nana Adjoa Hackman is a presidential appointee on the board of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), a detail he believes the management of Asaase Broadcasting Company should address in their rebuttal.

    He emphasized that this connection raises further questions, suggesting that the company’s response should clarify this affiliation as part of the ongoing controversy.

    “12. That all the key actors in this matter, from the 2006 sale to the latest Asaase/Lilly Homes transactions, are politically exposed persons cannot be challenged. Needless to add that at the time of the 2020 purchase, the director and sole shareholder of Lilly Homes, Nana Adjoa Hackman, was also President Akufo-Addo’s appointee on the board of GNPC.

    “13. The Akufo-Addo/Bawumia Government has at no point refuted the claims of the Judicial Service of Ghana; 14. Indeed, both the Ministers of Lands and Works and Housing are on record to have stated that they are currently negotiating with the Chief Justice to explore an amicable resolution of the matter and compensate the Judicial Service of Ghana;

    “15. I shall remain focused, resolute, and unintimidated in this consequential battle against State Capture.”

  • You could have handled clash with Oppong-Nkrumah better – Nana Akomea to Ablakwa

    You could have handled clash with Oppong-Nkrumah better – Nana Akomea to Ablakwa

    Nana Akomea, former Minister for Information, has sharply criticized Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Chairman of the Parliamentary Assurance Committee, for what he views as an unwarranted attack on Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the current Minister for Works and Housing.

    The confrontation began when Ablakwa, during a committee meeting, demanded that Nkrumah retract and apologize for his comments, which Ablakwa described as a misuse of his position—a “bully pulpit.”

    This controversy unfolded amid growing concerns over delays in finalizing housing projects for victims of the Akosombo dam spillage. Ablakwa accused Nkrumah of making inappropriate remarks and called for a formal apology.

    Minister Nkrumah responded by questioning whether he was not permitted to address and defend himself against the criticisms.

    Despite Nkrumah’s defense, Ablakwa maintained that his demand for a retraction and apology was valid, emphasizing that his actions were in line with parliamentary standing orders.

    “Honourable Minister you will be well advised to watch your diction. You will be well advised. You will be well advised. I will not take that. To suggest that I am using this position as a bully pulpit.” 

    “You have to retract that because that is not what I am doing here. You must retract and apologise. I am well within my standing orders. You have to retract that. You have to retract and apologise,” he stated. 

    However, Mr. Nkrumah countered by questioning whether it was appropriate for the committee chairman to accuse him of insincerity and deflection without granting him the opportunity to respond or present an alternative perspective.

    He stressed that he should have the right to address any allegations of insincerity or distraction, asserting that he deserved a chance to defend his position.

    But Mr Nkrumah replied, questioning if it was acceptable for the chairman of the committee to accuse him of being insincere and deflecting without allowing him the right to respond or share a different view. 

    He emphasised that if he is accused of insincerity or introducing red herrings, he must have the right to respond. 

    During a discussion on Metro TV, Nana Akomea, Managing Director of Intercity STC, advised Okudzeto Ablakwa, his fellow panelist, that he could have approached the situation more effectively without targeting the Minister.

    “Clearly, Sammy, I don’t think you acted well. You are talking about the victims, the 1,300 people. All of us are concerned about the plight of these people living in tents for over a year. The concern is that their plight is addressed; that is why you brought the minister to the committee to find out how the government is going to deal with their plight. 

    “But you see, in all of the week, what is being discussed is not the plight of these people. What is being discussed is your attack on the minister and his counterattack. You are entitled to your facts, and he’s also entitled to his facts. Both of you, your entitlement to the fact is what is being discussed now, instead of the plight. 

    “What I am saying is that the people who appear before you are your guests. You have invited them; you can be forthright with them, but you have to protect their integrity, but you didn’t do that. So, that was a problem. I disagree with your conduct at the sitting, but I am not going to attack you. I will not say you were arrogant; you will see that as a personal attack.” Nana Akomea said. 

  • I didn’t breach national security by probing BoG’s $20m transfer – Ablakwa

    I didn’t breach national security by probing BoG’s $20m transfer – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has defended his actions in sharing details of a $20 million transfer from the Bank of Ghana (BoG) to the Central Bank of Liberia, insisting that he did not breach national security protocols.

    Earlier, Mr. Ablakwa took to social media platform X to reveal that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) had cleared an amount of $20 million intended for the Central Bank of Liberia.

    He pointed out discrepancies between documents addressed to the GRA, which indicated that the money was sent to the Bank of Ghana for safekeeping before being transferred to Liberia, and records from Ghana’s central bank, which suggested a different narrative.

    The Bank of Ghana responded with a statement, describing the legislator’s actions as “unfortunate” and expressing concerns that his disclosure could compromise sensitive financial information, raising significant security issues. The central bank clarified that the $20 million was transferred to its account as part of an established arrangement with the Central Bank of Liberia.

    However, speaking on JoyFM’s Newsnight, Mr. Ablakwa dismissed these concerns, asserting that he had not breached any security protocols. He emphasized that his actions were part of his responsibilities as a legislator, aimed at holding public institutions accountable.

    “It is part of our work as Members of Parliament to carry out oversight to let all institutions know that we are on top of our job. We are watching, we are keenly monitoring, and we are carrying out oversight,” Mr. Ablakwa said.

    He explained that his intention in posting the issue on social media was simply to seek clarity on the matter, without any ulterior motives. Regarding the issue of posting flight details, which the BoG highlighted as a security concern, Ablakwa clarified that it was an oversight, as the details were included in the documents he shared. He also emphasized that he did not include any flight details in his write-up and that no flight information had been provided regarding the re-exportation of the funds.

    “We are carrying out our mandate, it is pure oversight, and I do not see the national security breach in this matter,” he added.

    Ablakwa also noted that the $20 million in question was secure and had not been stolen, questioning the basis of the national security concerns raised by the BoG. He highlighted the increasing incidents of money laundering as a justification for his scrutiny, asserting that he was merely fulfilling his role as an MP.

    Meanwhile, Mr. Ablakwa expressed satisfaction with the explanations provided by the Bank of Ghana and the Liberian government regarding the transfer.

  • Okudzeto ‘humbles’ Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah at Assurance Committee hearing

    Okudzeto ‘humbles’ Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah at Assurance Committee hearing

    A heated confrontation unfolded at the Governance and Assurance Committee hearing on Wednesday when Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Chairman of the Committee, clashed with the Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, over the government’s handling of the Akosombo dam spillage disaster.

    The tension began when Mr. Ablakwa, who has been critical of the government’s response to the disaster, allegedly accused Mr. Oppong-Nkrumah of being “insincere” in addressing the crisis. This remark did not sit well with the Minister, who fired back, accusing Mr. Ablakwa of using his position as Committee Chair to intimidate government officials.

    “You will be well advised to watch your diction. I will not take that. To suggest that I am using this position as a bully pulpit. You have to retract that. Because that is not what I am doing here. I am well within my standing orders,” Mr. Ablakwa retorted, refusing to back down from his stance.

    Mr. Oppong-Nkrumah, clearly agitated, interjected, “But it is okay for the Chairman of the Committee to accuse the Minister of being insincere, of deflecting without more, and I don’t have the right to answer or to say I share a different view.”

    As the exchange grew more intense, media personnel were instructed to stop their coverage of the meeting. However, in a move that further asserted his authority, Mr. Ablakwa instructed the media to continue broadcasting, ensuring that the heated interaction remained public.

    Mr. Ablakwa has been a vocal critic of the government’s prolonged failure to adequately support those affected by the Akosombo dam spillage. Nearly a year after the disaster, over 1,300 individuals remain in camps, waiting for compensation and necessary assistance to rebuild their lives.

    Speaking at a stakeholder public hearing, Mr. Ablakwa expressed his frustration with the government’s lack of action, particularly criticizing the inter-ministerial committee established to manage the crisis.

    “You heard the government set up a 30-member committee. We are the inter-ministerial committee. To be very honest with you, we are very disappointed that that committee has not met us even once. I mean, a lot of the members, we are in parliament with them. I would have thought that even if it’s parliament, we can meet here,” Mr. Ablakwa said.

    He continued, “We can even meet at the cafeteria, even over coffee that, oh, share data with us or tell us what is happening. You know, not one meeting, not so, we don’t know if it was just maybe an announcement for the public for some cosmetic reason, but we don’t know.”

  • Take off your cameras – Media ordered as Ablakwa, Oppong-Nkrumah engage in heated argument

    Take off your cameras – Media ordered as Ablakwa, Oppong-Nkrumah engage in heated argument

    A tense confrontation erupted on Wednesday between the Chairman of the Governance and Assurance Committee of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, during a committee meeting discussing the aftermath of the Akosombo dam spillage.

    The disagreement, which quickly escalated, began when Mr. Ablakwa allegedly described the Minister as “insincere” in his handling of the Akosombo dam spillage disaster. This comment did not sit well with Mr. Oppong-Nkrumah, who, visibly disgruntled, responded sharply, accusing Mr. Ablakwa of using his position as Committee Chair to intimidate government officials.

    “To suggest that I am using this position as a bully pulpit. You have to retract that. Because that is not what I am doing here. I am well within my standing orders,” Mr. Ablakwa demanded, clearly offended by the Minister’s accusation.

    Mr. Oppong-Nkrumah, however, stood his ground, interjecting, “But it is okay for the Chairman of the Committee to accuse the Minister of being insincere, of deflecting without more, and I don’t have the right to answer or to say I share a different view.”

    As the exchange intensified, media personnel present were instructed to stop their coverage of the meeting. However, Mr. Ablakwa intervened, insisting that the media continue their broadcast, further fueling the heated atmosphere.

    The North Tongu MP has been vocal about the government’s prolonged delay in providing adequate support to those affected by the Akosombo dam spillage. Despite nearly a year passing since the disaster, over 1,300 affected individuals remain in camps without receiving compensation or the necessary assistance to rebuild their lives.

    During a recent stakeholder public hearing, Mr. Ablakwa expressed his frustration with the government’s response, particularly criticizing the inter-ministerial committee established to address the disaster’s aftermath.

    “You heard the government set up a 30-member committee. We are the inter-ministerial committee. To be very honest with you, we are very disappointed that that committee has not met us even once. I mean, a lot of the members, we are in parliament with them. I would have thought that even if it’s parliament, we can meet here,” Mr. Ablakwa said.

    He further highlighted the lack of communication and engagement with MPs from the affected areas, stating, “We can even meet at the cafeteria, even over coffee that, oh, share data with us or tell us what is happening. You know, not one meeting, not so, we don’t know if it was just maybe an announcement for the public for some cosmetic reason, but we don’t know.”

    Mr. Ablakwa’s remarks reflect growing dissatisfaction with the government’s efforts to address the ongoing crisis, as affected communities continue to wait for the assistance they were promised.

  • Okudzeto, Oppong-Nkrumah lock horns over Akosombo Dam spillage victims’ resettlement

    Okudzeto, Oppong-Nkrumah lock horns over Akosombo Dam spillage victims’ resettlement

    Chairman of the Governance and Assurance Committee of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, had a fierce disagreement with the Minister for Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, when the committee engaged the minister over the aftermath of the Akosombo dam spillage on Wednesday.

    A disgruntled Oppong-Nkrumah did not mince his words when he addressed Mr Ablakwa following comments that allegedly described the Minister as “insincere” over the handling of the Akosombo dam spillage disaster.

    Mr Oppong-Nkrumah alleged that the North Tongu MP was using his role as Chair of the Committee to bully government officials.

    His comment was not taken lightly by Mr Ablakwa who in turn demanded a retraction and an apology.

    “You will be well advised to watch your diction. I will not take that. To suggest that I am using this position as a bully pulpit. You have to retract that. Because that is not what I am doing here. I am well within my standing orders,” Mr Ablakwa.

    Mr Oppong-Nkrumah interjected, saying, “But it is okay for the Chairman of the Committee to accuse the minister of being insincere, of deflecting without more and I don’t have the right to answer or to say I share a different view.”

    The banter got fierce and the media was advised to stop covering the meeting. Mr Ablakwa however, instructed the media to continue the broadcast.

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu has expressed outrage over the government’s prolonged failure to assist individuals affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage.

    Despite the disaster occurring almost a year ago, many affected persons remain in camps without receiving compensation or necessary support to resume their lives.

    Addressing a stakeholder public hearing, Ablakwa revealed that over 1,300 affected persons still live in camps, criticising the government’s approach as inadequate.

    He highlighted the government’s inter-ministerial committee’s failure to engage with MPs from impacted areas, despite being established to address the issue.

    “You heard the government set up a 30-member committee. We are the inter-ministerial committee. To be very honest with you, we are very disappointed that that committee has not met us even once. I mean, a lot of the members, we are in parliament with them. I would have thought that even if it’s parliament, we can meet here.”

    “We can even meet at the cafeteria, even over coffee that, oh, share data with us or tell us what is happening. You know, not one meeting, not so, we don’t know if it was just maybe an announcement for the public for some cosmetic reason, but we don’t know.

    The chiefs time without a number, they will even call us. You are in parliament with them. When is the committee coming? and we can’t provide answers because we are not, we haven’t been engaged.”

  • Ablakwa probes ‘mysterious’ $20m arrival at KIA, fingers BoG

    Ablakwa probes ‘mysterious’ $20m arrival at KIA, fingers BoG

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, raised serious concerns regarding the arrival and handling of a substantial sum of money at Kotoka International Airport (KIA).

    The MP revealed via social media that he is closely monitoring the movement of US$20 million in cash, which was cleared by Bank of Ghana officials after arriving in Ghana that afternoon.

    On August 27, Ablakwa expressed his apprehensions about inconsistencies in the documentation provided by the Bank of Ghana.

    He stated, “The Bank of Ghana must offer explanations on why supporting documents are not consistent with the content of its August 21, 2024 letter to custom and airport officials seeking to clear the uncirculated banknotes.”

    The MP highlighted a significant discrepancy, noting that although the Bank of Ghana claimed the money was ordered by the Central Bank of Liberia, “other intercepted documents including an air way bill indicate emphatically that the consignee is the Bank of Ghana and not the Central Bank of Liberia.”

    Ablakwa further revealed that he is working with international partners to track the movement of the funds, stating that he intends to confirm whether the entire amount will indeed be transferred to Liberia as claimed, and if so, when this will take place.

    He underscored the importance of transparency in the handling of such a large sum of money, especially given the discrepancies in the documents.

    “My international partners and I will keep tracking this US$20 million cash from London to confirm if indeed the fresh banknotes will be transferred to Liberia, when the transfer will be carried out and if the full amount will be transferred,” Ablakwa emphasized.

    The Bank of Ghana has yet to respond to these claims, and the situation continues to unfold as more details emerge.

  • God, clergy have been deceived by Akufo-Addo over National Cathedral funding – Ablakwa

    God, clergy have been deceived by Akufo-Addo over National Cathedral funding – Ablakwa

    The MP for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has launched a fierce attack on President Akufo-Addo, accusing him of dishonesty over the National Cathedral’s funding.

    Mr Ablakwa alleged that the President misled the public, religious leaders, and even God about where the money for the project was coming from.

    Although it was initially promised that no taxpayer money would be used, it has since been revealed that state funds were indeed allocated to the construction, sparking widespread criticism.

    During an interview with Selorm Adonoo on The Point of View on Channel One TV, Ablakwa denounced the President’s actions as a serious breach of the Constitution, emphasizing the failure to obtain parliamentary approval for using public money.

    “How on earth can you spend $58.1 million to establish the world’s most expensive pit? In the name of building a Cathedral? And the deception, you tell us you won’t use public funds, it’s a private pledge, only for me to start intercepting documents. Apparently, the eminent clergy has been deceived, the Ghanaian people have been deceived and worst of all the Almighty [God] has been deceived.

    “I made an RTI request to the Procurement Authority on whether they are aware of this project, and they promptly responded, no, it has not come to their procurement process, and they know nothing about the project.

    “I mean unbelievable and shocking levels of lack of accountability, lack of due process, and disregard for our constitution. The constitution is very clear, you cannot spend public funds without parliamentary approval, and all of that, fragrant violence of our Constitution and our laws.”

    On July 3, 2024, Abena Osei Asare, Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, informed Parliament that GH₵339 million had been allocated to the National Cathedral project.

    She detailed that this funding was dedicated to securing the project’s completion by delivering the essential financial resources needed.

  • Bawumia backs Okudzeto’s bill banning govt officials from buying state assets

    Bawumia backs Okudzeto’s bill banning govt officials from buying state assets

    Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has thrown his support behind the introduction of a law to prevent politicians and politically exposed persons from purchasing state assets.

    He made his position on this issue known during a media engagement on Sunday, August 25.

    “I think it is something we should all support. Any bill that stops state officials from buying assets,” he said after being asked by GHOne journalist, Natalie Fort whether he would assent to such a bill should he become president.

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is leading the charge for such a bill.

    The need for a private member’s bill in Parliament in a bid to prevent politicians and politically exposed persons from purchasing state assets arose over the circumstances surrounding the Social Security and National Insurance Trust’s intended sale of its 60% per cent stake in six hotels to Rock City Hotels Limited owned by a Member of Parliament and Minister of State, Bryan Acheampong.

    Rock City rescinded its proposal following intense public backlash.

  • 10 NPP stalwarts fingered in Ablakwa’s new expose on land purchase at la wireless

    10 NPP stalwarts fingered in Ablakwa’s new expose on land purchase at la wireless

    North Tongu Member of Parliament, Okudzeto Ablakwa has revealed fresh intercepts from his ongoing special parliamentary oversight on State Capture, indicating that the issue is far more severe and pervasive than initially believed.

    He highlighted that these findings clarify why the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government has steadfastly refused to release the full list of public land sales, despite a protracted three-year effort by Parliament to secure this information.

    Mr Ablakwa also noted that the NPP’s newly launched manifesto entirely omitted any plans to address State Capture or the unethical sale of state assets by cronies.

    These new revelations are expected to exacerbate the credibility crisis facing the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, which has consistently denied that public lands are being sold, insisting that they remain safe and intact.

    Ablakwa then presented an initial list of notable names emerging from the latest findings concerning the sale of prime lands by President Akufo-Addo to his appointees and other politically exposed persons in the AU Village/La Wireless area.

    1. Kate Gyamfua (NPP Women’s Organiser) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 31st August, 2022;
    2. Ibrahim Mohammed Awal (Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture at the time of purchase) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 30th November, 2020;
    3. Dr. Ernest Yedu Addison (Governor, Bank of Ghana) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 31st August, 2022;
    4. Elsie Addo Awadzi (Deputy Governor, Bank of Ghana) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 27th August, 2020;
    5. Maxwell Opoku-Afari (Deputy Governor, Bank of Ghana) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 31st August, 2022;
    6. Joseph Boahen Aidoo (CEO, COCOBOD) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 30th October, 2020;
    7. Dr. Janet Ampadu Fofie (Chairperson, Presidential Emoluments Committee) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 29th June, 2022;
    8. Kwabena Mantey Jectey Nyarko (Board Member, Ghana Airport Company Limited) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 22nd October, 2022;
    9. Anselm Ransford Adzete Sowah (Ghana’s High Commissioner to Canada) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 14th October, 2020;
    10. Anna Asare Oduro (Former NPP Women’s Organiser, Holland Chapter) — Purchased from President Akufo-Addo on 25th February, 2021;

    I shall continue to serialize the unconscionable and opaque land grab by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government until they respond positively to the people’s legitimate demand for accountability by publishing the full and unredacted data on the sale and true status of public lands — after all, these lands belong to the Ghanaian people.

    This is another reason why I am delighted that we are making progress on our Private Member’s Bill seeking to ban all politicians, politically exposed persons and other top public officials from buying state assets.

    Watch out for Part 2.

    For God and Country.

    Ghana First

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

    Read post below as he shared on Facebook:

  • GETFund will be uncapped to help NDC fund ‘No-fees policy’ for university freshers – Ablakwa

    GETFund will be uncapped to help NDC fund ‘No-fees policy’ for university freshers – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that a future National Democratic Congress (NDC) government plans to use the Ghana Education Trust Fund (GETFund) to finance its proposed ‘No-fees policy’ for first-year university students.

    This policy, announced during the launch of the NDC’s Youth Manifesto, aims to alleviate the financial burden on parents by covering the tuition fees for Level 100 students.

    Addressing concerns about the funding of the policy, which have emerged following criticisms of NDC’s 2024 flagbearer, John Mahama, Ablakwa clarified how the initiative would be supported.

    Critics have questioned the feasibility of the policy given Ghana’s economic conditions, suggesting it might be an unrealistic promise to secure votes.

    In an interview on Joy FM’s Newsfile on August 17, Ablakwa outlined that the Mahama administration plans to uncap GETFund as a key measure to generate the necessary funds.

    He explained that preliminary estimates suggest the policy would cost between GH₵250 million and GH₵300 million annually.

    Ablakwa emphasized that reversing the capping law, which currently limits the funds available to statutory bodies, would free up this amount.

    “We are advocating for two major changes to GETFund,” Ablakwa stated. “First, we need to uncap the fund. Second, we must stop the Daakye Bond and its collateralisation effects.” He criticized the incumbent government’s capping law, which has imposed ceilings on funds for statutory agencies, including GETFund.

    Ablakwa provided an example, noting that despite GETFund accruing GH₵7 billion, only GH₵3 billion was accessible due to the capping and obligations associated with the Daakye Bond. He assured that removing the cap and eliminating the collateralisation would unlock an additional GH₵4 billion, which would then be allocated to support the policy.

    In a related statement, John Mahama addressed funding concerns during a Youth Town Hall Meeting at Ho Technical University. He assured that the policy would be financed by redirecting funds from wasteful government expenditures.

    The NDC’s approach seeks to enhance access to tertiary education by eliminating fees for new university students, contingent on the party winning the upcoming elections.

    Meanwhile, a staff member of the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) Legal Directorate, Kingsley Amoakwa-Boadu, has affirmed the party’s support for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) proposal to scrap academic fees for all first-year tertiary students.

    He acknowledged that any policy aimed at improving access to tertiary education is welcomed by the NPP, as Ghana requires educated minds to drive its development.

    While expressing the NPP’s overall support for the policy, he emphasized that their primary concern lies with the practical implementation and financing of the NDC’s proposed initiative.

    He questioned how the policy would be executed effectively, noting inconsistencies in the NDC’s communication.

    “Our issue is how it is going to be implemented and financed,” Amoakwa-Boadu said.

    “The NDC is not speaking from one script. You have someone say this and the other say that. You get someone say it is for all public universities, and what about technical universities?”

  • ‘I will publish names of gov’t officials who profited from sold state lands’ – Ablakwa vows

    ‘I will publish names of gov’t officials who profited from sold state lands’ – Ablakwa vows

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has pledged to reveal the names of government officials who allegedly profited from the sale of state lands during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

    Mr. Ablakwa’s decision comes in response to the Lands Minister, Samuel Jinapor, who dismissed allegations of land grabbing and the sale of state lands under the NPP government.

    The Lands Minister claimed that most of the lands in question were transferred to private individuals for development in the state’s interest.

    “The allegations of state capture and the narrative that this government is indiscriminately selling public lands, are all palpably false, without merit, and, obviously, actuated by political considerations given that we are nearing elections,” Lands Minister said.

    Responding to this, Mr. Ablakwa contested the Lands Minister’s stance, accusing the government of complicity in the issue.

    “We have come to the firm conclusion that the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government is deliberately refusing to disclose the status of all public lands in our country because they are complicit. They know that when the full facts emerge, they will be exposed for the massive land grabs and unquestionable state capture they have engaged in,” he said.

    He threatened to expose the government on the matter should the minister dare him by failing to produce the data on all state lands.

    He said government “under the guise of we are returning lands to stools, individuals, government takes a share of state lands.”

    “We are revealing today and we are aware that government always takes a percentage of the land and then shares surreptitiously. If they dare us, we will publish in full the percentage they had in the Kumasi transfer and the people who are now beneficiaries,” he said.

    He added “The Accra transfer – La Wireless lands, the 12 per cent that they took and the people they have sold it to. We dare the Lands Minister that he should attempt again to rope the NDC into their filthy state capture and the exposure we will make, it would be difficult for them to stay in this country.”

    He claimed to be aware of the government’s dubious activities and urged them to halt the sale of state lands and safeguard any remaining assets.

  • Big joke, the last minister said the same thing – Ablakwa tells Jinapor over list of public lands

    Big joke, the last minister said the same thing – Ablakwa tells Jinapor over list of public lands

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has dismissed the latest promise by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, to publish a comprehensive list of public lands, calling it a “big joke.”

    According to Ablakwa, similar promises have been made by previous ministers, yet no such list has ever materialized.

    The North Tongu MP’s criticism came after Jinapor’s press conference on August 14, 2024, where the Lands Minister refuted allegations of the government’s improper allocation of state lands to cronies and assured the public that a full list of public lands would soon be published.

    The list, Jinapor said, is part of the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in land management.

    “The Akufo-Addo administration is firmly committed to protecting public lands from encroachment and misuse,” Jinapor stated. “We are finalizing the audit, and once completed, we will publish a detailed list of all public lands.”

    However, Ablakwa was unimpressed by the announcement. In an interview with Citi News, he pointed out that this was not the first time such a promise had been made.

    “This is a big joke,” Ablakwa remarked. “The last Lands Minister told us in Parliament that the President had requested a compilation of public lands, but we have yet to see any such list. Why are we such a joke as a country?”

    In his second term in office which began in 2021, President Akufo-Addo replaced Lands Minister Kwaku Asomah-Cheremeh with Samuel Abu Jinapor, who was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Operations at the Office of the President.

    Ablakwa went further to expose troubling details he claimed to have uncovered during a parliamentary inquiry.

    According to him, the Lands Commission admitted under oath that public lands were being sold off as private properties.

    “Can you believe that? The Lands Commission confessed under oath that public lands are being treated like private land sales. We are in a total mess,” he said.

    Despite Ablakwa’s strong words, Mr Jinapor has stood by the government’s efforts to protect state lands.

    He labeled the accusations as politically motivated and insisted that all transactions involving public lands have been lawful and transparent. Jinapor assured the public that the ongoing audit will prove that the government’s handling of public lands has been above board.

    “We are determined to show that this government has nothing to hide,” Jinapor reiterated.

    “Once the audit is complete and the list of public lands is published, it will build public confidence in the management of our national assets.”

  • Lands Commission confessed under oath that public lands are sold as private land – Ablakwa claims

    Lands Commission confessed under oath that public lands are sold as private land – Ablakwa claims

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made a startling claim, alleging that the Lands Commission confessed under oath to selling public lands as private property.

    Ablakwa’s remarks were in response to a press conference held by the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, who had refuted accusations that the government was leasing state lands to its cronies.

    During an interview with Citi News, Ablakwa dismissed the Lands Minister’s denials as a “big joke,” insisting that the government has been engaging in illegal practices regarding public lands.

    “We have to go back to the basics. The last minister informed Parliament that the president had requested a compilation of all public lands, but to date, that compilation has not been provided,” Ablakwa said.

    “Why are we such a joke as a country? The Lands Commission has come under oath and admitted that public lands are being sold as private land. Can you believe that? It’s a total mess, a hot mess.”

    Ablakwa further urged the government to publish a comprehensive list of all public lands, stating that transparency is key in resolving the situation.

    “Let’s get to the basics. Publish the list. Put the compilation together,” he stressed.

    Ablakwa’s accusations followed an earlier press briefing by Lands Minister Samuel A. Jinapor, who defended the government against claims of corrupt practices in managing state lands.

    Mr Jinapor challenged critics to provide evidence to substantiate their allegations, reiterating that the Akufo-Addo administration is committed to safeguarding public lands from encroachment and misuse.

    “The Akufo-Addo government has been unwavering in its resolve to protect public lands. We are not only committed to preserving these lands but also ensuring the public is fully informed about their status,” Jinapor said. He revealed that the government is in the final stages of auditing all public lands and plans to publish a detailed list once the audit is complete.

    Mr Jinapor dismissed Ablakwa’s claims as politically motivated and unfounded. He maintained that all transactions involving public lands have been conducted transparently and in accordance with the law.

    “The publication of this list will not only enhance transparency but also build public confidence in the management of our national assets. We are determined to show that this government has nothing to hide,” Jinapor assured the public.

    As concerns about the management of public lands continue to rise, the government has committed to making the comprehensive list of state lands available, ensuring that the public can scrutinize any transactions.

  • Okudzeto throws more ‘dirt’ at Rev Kusi Boateng in latest exposè

    Okudzeto throws more ‘dirt’ at Rev Kusi Boateng in latest exposè

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has once again brought to light new allegations against Rev. Victor Kusi Boateng, founder and leader of Power Chapel Worldwide, implicating him in a controversial government contract deal.

    Ablakwa alleges that Rev. Kusi Boateng, who also goes by the name Kwabena Adu Gyamfi, has been involved in questionable business practices with the incumbent Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government.

    Ablakwa claims that while Rev. Kusi Boateng has publicly stated that he has never received any government contracts, this assertion is technically accurate only because the contracts were awarded under his second identity, Kwabena Adu Gyamfi.

    According to the MP, this alternate identity has allowed Kusi Boateng to secure lucrative government contracts without directly linking them to his well-known name.

    The North Tongu MP presented evidence, including government payment vouchers, which show that two companies—EL Dunamis Limited and JNS Talent Centre Limited—owned by Kwabena Adu Gyamfi, received a total of GHS7 million for the supply of paper towels to the Ministry of Health in 2021.

    Specifically, JNS Talent Centre received its payment on July 23, 2021, while EL Dunamis was paid on August 17, 2021. Both contracts were reportedly single-sourced, raising further questions about the transparency of the procurement process.

    Ablakwa, in a statement, expressed disbelief over the scale of the contracts, remarking, “I can’t imagine how GHS7 million worth of tissues looks like.”

    He also emphasized that if it weren’t for diligent parliamentary oversight, the alleged scheme might have gone unnoticed, allowing Rev. Kusi Boateng to continue operating under what Ablakwa describes as a “criminal double identity scheme.”

    The North Tongu MP’s exposé adds to the mounting scrutiny surrounding Rev. Kusi Boateng and his alleged connections to the current administration, further intensifying the debate over the integrity of government procurement processes.

  • Okudzeto Lists: Top 10 exposés that saved Ghana GHC20bn

    Okudzeto Lists: Top 10 exposés that saved Ghana GHC20bn

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has provided a list of 10 parliamentary oversight exposés which have cumulatively saved Ghana a colossal US$1.3 billion (GHS20.2 billion).

    From halting dubious transactions to revealing questionable deals, these actions highlight the critical importance of oversight in maintaining transparency and accountability in governance.

    Key achievements include preventing excessive spending on the National Cathedral project, saving approximately $400 million, and blocking the sale of SSNIT hotels, which safeguarded $121 million.

    Moreover, the exposure of President Akufo-Addo’s luxury jet travels is estimated to have saved around $90 million. This list of financial safeguards demonstrates the vital role of parliamentary scrutiny in protecting public resources and fostering good governance.

    National Cathedral: Oversight ensured that despite initial costs exceeding $58 million, no further expenses were incurred, saving roughly $400 million.

    SSNIT Hotels: The prevention of the sale of 60% shares in SSNIT hotels to Bryan Acheampong saved Ghana at least $121 million.

    Akufo-Addo’s Luxury Jet: Stopping the €20,000-per-hour chartered jet trips potentially saved about $90 million.

    Ambulance Spare Parts Scandal: Exposing corruption involving the President’s daughters’ business associates saved $34.9 million.

    Transaction Levy Services: Blocking the questionable allocation of e-Transaction Levy services in the 2022 Budget saved Ghana GHS 241.9 million.

    Oslo Chancery Scandal: Effective oversight saved Ghana $12.2 million.

    West Blue Contract: Uncovering unreasonable demands by Gabby Asare Okyere-Darko resulted in savings of GHS 187.3 million.

    Heaven Builders Scandal: Preventing the transfer of valuable airport lands to a private company saved over $250 million.

    Apex Pollution Judgment Debt: Identifying a potential financial loss saved Ghana $88 million.

    Bulgarian Embassy Demolition: Stopping the loss of prime land valued at $5 million due to unscrupulous political actions.

  • Govt overpriced purchase of 307 ambulances by $29M – Minority claims

    Govt overpriced purchase of 307 ambulances by $29M – Minority claims

    The Minority in Parliament has accused the government of inflating the cost of 307 ambulances purchased in 2019, claiming that the total expenditure should not have exceeded $25 million, based on a unit price of $80,000.

    Chairman of the Government Assurances Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has demanded a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the alleged overpricing.

    He cited findings from the Auditor General’s 2022 performance audit, which flagged the procurement as problematic.

    “The procurement of the 307 ambulances cost this country $54.3 million. The Auditor General has revealed if you go through the 2022 performance audit that that procurement itself is problematic. When you do the analysis, it was an inflated procurement because page 24 of the audit reveals that the unit price of the ambulance is $80,000 and yet we paid $54.3 million.

    “$80,000 multiplied by 307, we should not have paid more than $25 million for this ambulance. And yet Ghana was made to pay a colossal, whopping $54.3 million as discovered on page two of the Auditor General’s report.”

    Ablakwa also alleged that between 2020 and 2023, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited received 115 million Ghana Cedis for ambulance maintenance under dubious circumstances.

    He pointed out that Stephen Okoro, a key director at the company and an in-law of President Akufo-Addo, is also linked to the President’s daughters through a long-standing business relationship.

    “Then you need to also consider the fact that between 2020 and 2023, this company, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, has been paid 115 million Ghana cedis in addition to the $54.3 million then the latest scandal, the intercepted letters of the Hon.

    “Ken Ofori Atta on the 9th February 2024, a few days before he left office on the 14 February, he instructed that this $34.9 million should be approved and that his ministry would take care of $10 million and the National Health Insurance Authority should take care of the outstanding $24.9 million.

    “A key director of Service, Ghana Auto Group Limited, is named, Stephen Okoro.  We have discovered through our parliamentary oversight, diligent parliamentary oversight, that Stephen Okoro is not just any Ghanaian or Nigerian for that matter. He is an in-law to President Akufo-Addo. Stephen Okoro has given President Akufo-Addo a grandchild.”

    “This is a fact. And now in the corruption literature, politically exposed persons come under greater scrutiny. That is why when we were formulating the Office of Special Prosecutor Act, we included politically exposed persons.

    “The other thing that makes Stephen Okoro so politically exposed is that we have discovered that he is a longstanding business partner of the Akufo-Addo daughters.”

  • I have saved Ghana $1.3bn through my exposés against corruption – Ablakwa

    I have saved Ghana $1.3bn through my exposés against corruption – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that his recent investigations have saved Ghana US$1.3 billion (GH¢20.2 billion).

    In a post on X dated August 6, 2024, Ablakwa highlighted 10 issues he uncovered that had previously been overlooked by Parliament.

    Ablakwa noted that the National Cathedral project alone saved US$400 million, while the SSNIT hotels saga saved an additional US$121 million.

    Other notable exposures include questionable deals involving ambulance spare parts, transaction levies, and the West Blue contract.

    “A breakdown of my Top 10 Parliamentary Oversight Exposés which have cumulatively saved Ghana a colossal US$ 1.3 billion (GH¢20.2billion).

    “We shall keep fighting to defeat State Capture and blatant corruption,” his post read.

    Background

    In recent times, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has focused on uncovering dubious deals and projects under the current government.

    One of his significant exposes involved the ambulance spare parts deal, where he raised alarms about potential corruption and requested an investigation by the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

    Ablakwa claimed the deal was rushed through by the finance minister just five days before his removal, with $10 million already disbursed to the company.

    The Ministry of Health later clarified that the contract was originally signed by the now-defunct Ministry of Special Development Initiatives with Service Auto Group Ghana Limited, covering after-sales service and maintenance for 307 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 315 CDI ambulances procured by the government in 2019.

  • Not even a dollar has been paid to Service Ghana Auto for spare parts – Okoe-Boye replies Ablakwa

    Minister of Health, Bernard Okoe-Boye clarified a recent press statement, stating that the $10 million mentioned is yet to be paid to Service Ghana Auto Limited for spare parts and maintenance of state-owned ambulances.

    Speaking on Thursday, August 1, 2024, Okoe-Boye cited information from a Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, confirming that no payment has been made despite the issuance of a Letter of Credit.

    The Deputy Governor indicated that payment would only occur once the company fulfills its agreement.

    “I spoke to one of the Deputy Governors of the Bank of Ghana who told me that not even a dollar has been given to the service provider. She said that it is actually a letter of credit and that it is when the provider has actually supplied the parts to certain tunes and execute the work that they are empowered to pay for the work done. So the governor made me understand that they have it with but haven’t paid.

    “From the controller to the BoG, all these trails that our state actors should be willing to give information. I deliberately didn’t allow my PR team to put this in the earlier release because I believed that the BoG if called upon should be able to provide this information,” he said.

    His clarification comes as Service Ghana Auto Limited responded to claims by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu.

    In a statement seen by GhanaWeb, SGAGL refuted Ablakwa’s allegations of illegality in the $34.9 million payment for the purchase and fitting of spare parts on 307 government ambulances.

    The company denied the MP’s assertion that the contract was awarded by Akufo-Addo without competitive tendering, explaining that it was one of 16 companies that bid for the contract in 2018.

    SGAGL was selected as part of a consortium of seven companies due to their ability to provide the required services at a relatively low price.

    “SGAGL is an SPV of a consortium of seven companies that participated in a competitive procurement process, not sole-sourced, and was adjudged on merit to procure and provide after-sales service and maintenance for 307 Mercedes Benz Sprinter ambulances for the National Ambulance Service (NAS).”

    “A total of 16 companies participated, including the seven companies that eventually formed the Consortium during the pre-tender workshop round. The companies that formed the consortium included Luxury World Auto Group Limited, Elok Consult, RDC Company Limited, Beft Engineering Works Limited, Prestige Era Company Limited, Bluemix Company Limited, and Quality Supply and Builders Company Limited,” the statement read.

    In an earlier statement, the Ministry of Health confirmed a $10 million payment to the company for ambulance maintenance.

    “The Ministry of Health would like to act only upon the request of the Health Ministry after the Ministry of Special Development Initiatives was dissolved to clarify that the Service Provider, Ghana Auto Group Limited, has not been paid an amount of $34.9 million as widely reported.”

    “The Ministry of Health is committed to ensuring a sustainable maintenance regime for all fleets procured for the National Ambulance Service to provide reliable, efficient, and safe emergency medical services,” a statement issued by the Ministry read in part.

  • Efforts to release govt lands list are being blocked by Lands Commission – Ablakwa

    Efforts to release govt lands list are being blocked by Lands Commission – Ablakwa

    The Government Assurances Committee of Parliament has criticized the Lands Commission for its failure to provide data on public lands and their use over time.

    The Committee argues that this data is crucial for addressing fraudulent practices, such as the improper registration of government lands as private properties.

    At its meeting on Wednesday, July 31, the committee chairman, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, expressed frustration over the unsuccessful attempts to obtain these documents from the Lands Commission over the past two years.

    “If this data is put together and provided, it will help all of us. These instances of government lands being registered as private lands and the fraud that is going on at the Lands Commission, as exposed by the Soul Enquirer, the only way to stem this, to prevent this, to forestall this, is to have the data, to put the data together.

    “That is why I am clear in my mind that there are elements at the Lands Commission who don’t want the Ghanaian people to have this data.”

    In response, Samuel Abdulai Jinapor, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, explained the delay.

    “The Lands Commission for all these years has been operating manually and it is just recently that we have started making efforts to digitise the records of the Lands Commission.

    “The information I have from the Commission since I gave them the instructions to compile this list is that compiling the list from the 16 regions of the Lands Commission across the country from 1993 to now is an extraordinary undertaking and therefore they have not been able to put it all together as yet. And so I am unable to provide it now, but there is work in progress.”

  • Ghanaian MPs who have steered major demonstrations since 2020

    Ghanaian MPs who have steered major demonstrations since 2020

    In recent years, Ghana has seen a notable increase in political activism among its Members of Parliament (MPs), with several taking to the streets to lead public demonstrations beyond their legislative duties.

    This trend illustrates a growing trend among lawmakers to engage directly with their constituents and address urgent local and national issues through public protests.

    Abla Dzifa Gomashie

    The MP for Ketu South, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, spearheaded a demonstration in August 2021 to protest the closure of land borders in her constituency, which had been severely impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. Her aim was to pressure the government to reopen these borders.

    Mahama Ayariga

    The MP for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has long been involved in organizing protests over economic and financial policies. Recently, on October 3, 2023, he led a march against the Bank of Ghana’s policies, demanding greater transparency and accountability.

    The protesters, who gathered at Obra Spot in Circle, marched to the Bank of Ghana’s offices to present a petition for the removal of Governor Dr. Ernest Addison.

    However, the leadership of the Minority was met by the Head of Security at the Bank, Kwesi Asare-Boateng, rather than the governor. Protesters, dressed in black and red, carried placards with messages such as “scrap E-Levy now” and “stop the loot!”

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, led a demonstration on June 18 against the sale of four Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, owned by Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong.

    Ablakwa, along with Organised Labour and other stakeholders, challenged the process behind Rock City’s selection for purchasing the hotels.

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

    Following the protest, Rock City withdrew its bid to purchase a 60% stake in these hotels, and SSNIT announced on July 12 that the sale process had been terminated. SSNIT assured the public of its commitment to managing the Trust’s affairs prudently.

    “Discontinuation of Sale of 60% stake in Hotels. The Board and Management of Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) wish to inform the public that the process to divest 60% of SSNIT’s stake in the hotels has been terminated.

    “We wish to assure pensioners, contributors and the public of our commitment to managing the affairs of the Trust prudently for the sustainability of the Pension Scheme,” the statement from SSNIT said.

  • I’m dedicated to getting back funds paid to Service Auto Ghana by govt – Ablakwa

    I’m dedicated to getting back funds paid to Service Auto Ghana by govt – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has committed to reclaiming all funds disbursed to Service Ghana Auto, arguing that these payments lacked Parliamentary sanction.

    He has also guaranteed that no more payments will be made to the company.

    In a recent social media update, he declared, “He has also vowed to ensure that no further payments are made to the organization regarding the purchasing of spare parts for the ambulances procured by the current government.”

    Read his full post below

    This week, I shall be escalating parliamentary oversight efforts aimed at compelling the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government to abrogate the sleazy, unconscionable, and dubiously inflated US$34.9 million ambulance spare parts sweetheart deal.

    We will do everything in our power to ensure the outstanding US$24.9 million is not paid.

    We shall also initiate vigorous steps to have our US$10 million (GHS120.7 million) retrieved from the shady and discredited Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.

    Remember, this alarmingly corrupt transaction was not approved by Parliament; therefore, Ken Ofori-Atta had no legal basis to grant ministerial authorization for the US$34.9 million heist, more so, to further instruct the release of US$10 million.

    Meanwhile, I shall be fully cooperating with the OSP’s investigations following my complaint.

    May God help us win this latest battle against ugly, destructive state capture.

    For God and Country.

  • OSP to investigate Akufo-Addo’s daughters?

    OSP to investigate Akufo-Addo’s daughters?

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has submitted a petition to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) with the aim of stopping an imminent payment of $24.9 million in a controversial ambulance spare parts deal involving Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.

    This petition follows allegations by Ablakwa of possible corruption and conflict of interest involving President Akufo-Addo’s two daughters, who are allegedly linked to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.

    However, the OSP is yet to publicly acknowledge receipt of the petition and announce its interest in investigating the issue that has gained national attention.

    Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, July 24, Mr Ablakwa confirmed that his petition includes all relevant letters, information, and documentation related to the deal.

    The company is at the centre of the $34.9 million deal, of which $10 million has already been approved by former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.

    “I can confirm to you that all the letters, information, and documentation we have gathered on this matter and conflict of interest links have been added to the petition that we have submitted to the Office of the Special Prosecutor. And we hope that the OSP will be allowed the free hand to look into this matter,” Ablakwa stated on Wednesday.

    Ablakwa stressed the urgency of halting the additional $24.9 million payment, which follows an initial $10 million payment.

    “What we are aiming to achieve immediately is to stop that imminent additional payment,” he said. “At the end of the day, it is to protect the public purse,” he emphasized.

    The legislator also highlighted the critical needs within the health sector, arguing that the funds could be better utilized.

    “If it is about spending $34.9 million in the health sector, there are so many other priorities; lack of MRIs, lack of X-rays, lack of incubators, we still have the no-bed syndrome, and many hospitals are struggling to cope.

    “Health practitioners are complaining about the total neglect of hospitals in terms of equipping them. So this is money we can save for our doctors and nurses to have the equipment and tools they need to save lives,” he asserted.

  • Two of Akufo-Addo’s daughters fingered in shady $34.9m ambulance spare parts deal

    Two of Akufo-Addo’s daughters fingered in shady $34.9m ambulance spare parts deal

    North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has unveiled startling new details regarding the ongoing $34.9 million ambulance spare parts deal scandal.

    According to Ablakwa, President Akufo-Addo’s daughters are allegedly linked to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, the company at the heart of this controversial transaction.

    Mr. Ablakwa, who initially exposed the deal and subsequently petitioned the Office of the Special Prosecutor to investigate potential corruption, shared additional documents on his Facebook page on Wednesday, July 24. These documents suggest that Service Ghana Auto Group Limited received favorable treatment due to its connections with the president’s daughters.

    The company reportedly received a $10 million payment in February, five days before the former Finance Minister left office. The Auditor-General’s report revealed that Service Ghana Auto Group Limited was engaged and paid for eight months before the government officially awarded them the contract.

    Furthermore, the company was tasked with providing maintenance services in January 2020, even though it was only incorporated on April 24, 2020.

    Despite the damning findings by the Auditor-General, including procurement breaches, inflated invoices, lack of value for money, fraudulent use of National Ambulance Service staff, and the company’s refusal to refund undeserved payments, the government proceeded with the $34.9 million spare parts deal.

    Ablakwa questions why the government ignored these serious issues and awarded another significant contract to the same company.

    In his latest revelations, Ablakwa disclosed that one of the directors of Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, Stephen Okoro, is a close business partner and longtime associate of President Akufo-Addo’s daughters.

    Okoro and Gyankroma Akufo-Addo are the only directors of SFO Initiatives Limited, a company involved in building and road construction, civil engineering works, and food and crop farming since its incorporation on August 9, 2013.

    Ablakwa’s investigation also revealed that on August 12, 2020, Stephen Okoro, Gyankroma Akufo-Addo, and Edwina Akufo-Addo incorporated Goodbox Limited, a company running a gym.

    Keli Gadzekpo, the Board Chair of ECG and a presidential appointee, was made a shareholder of Goodbox Limited. Additionally, on August 20, 2020, the trio incorporated Good Grow Limited, a company focused on growing and farming cannabis, taking advantage of Ghana’s new legal cannabis regime spearheaded by President Akufo-Addo.

    Ablakwa asserts that Ken Ofori-Atta, the former Finance Minister, approved the $34.9 million ambulance spare parts deal and the subsequent $10 million payment to benefit his nieces and their business partner.

    He believes Ofori-Atta’s primary focus was on ensuring the financial gain of the presidential family, fearing that a new Finance Minister might sabotage their interests.

    According to Ablakwa, the preferential treatment given to Stephen Okoro’s Service Ghana Auto Group Limited now makes sense, given the family connections.

    He also noted that Okoro has incorporated six other companies between 2017 and 2020, highlighting a “golden era” of business opportunities for him.

    In an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, July 24, Ablakwa emphasized that President Akufo-Addo’s promise to avoid a family and friends government has not materialized. He hopes the Special Prosecutor will thoroughly investigate these new findings and prevent the government from paying the additional $24.9 million to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.

    “It is my hope that the OSP will be allowed the free hand to conduct his investigations. In the interim, let us do everything in our power to prevent the payment of the outstanding $24.9 million. Together, we shall win this battle,” Ablakwa stated.

  • Gov’t isn’t selling Parks and Gardens lands to private developers – Local Government Minister

    Gov’t isn’t selling Parks and Gardens lands to private developers – Local Government Minister

    The Minister of Local Government and Decentralisation, Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah, has dismissed allegations that Ghana’s Parks and Gardens lands are being sold to a private developer.

    The controversy emerged after North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa claimed that these green spaces, crucial for environmental conservation, were being transferred to private ownership.

    The Parks and Gardens lands, originally established during the colonial era, have long symbolized Ghana’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage and maintaining an eco-friendly environment.

    The recent allegations stirred significant public concern and debate, with critics warning that the privatization of these areas could jeopardize the country’s environmental legacy.

    Addressing the issue during a working visit to various departments and agencies under his ministry on July 22, Minister Adjei-Mensah Korsah firmly refuted the claims.

    He assured the public of the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding state lands.

    “I emphasize the government’s steadfast commitment to protecting state lands. I assure the public that there are no ongoing plans or negotiations for their privatisation,” he stated.

  • $113k on spare parts could have bought brand new Mercedes Benz ambulance – Ablakwa chides govt

    $113k on spare parts could have bought brand new Mercedes Benz ambulance – Ablakwa chides govt

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised serious concerns about a questionable ambulance spare parts procurement deal worth $34.9 million (GH₵538 million).

    In a revealing interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, July 22, Ablakwa questioned the value for money in the procurement process that took place in 2019. He argued that the funds spent on spare parts could have been better allocated toward purchasing new, fully equipped ambulances.

    Ablakwa highlighted that the amount of $34.9 million spent on spare parts translates to approximately $113,000 per ambulance.

    He pointed out that it is possible to acquire a brand new, fully equipped Mercedes Benz ambulance for a similar or even lower cost. This comparison, he argued, exposes the inefficiency and potential mismanagement of the procurement.

    “Today, you can even order a fully equipped brand new Mercedes Benz ambulance for less than $113,000. So why are we spending that much on spare parts when we could get a brand new, fully equipped ambulance?” Ablakwa questioned.

    Adding to his concerns, Ablakwa noted that the beneficiary company, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, was only incorporated on April 24, 2020, a year after the ambulances were commissioned. This raises doubts about the company’s capability and legitimacy in servicing the ambulances.

    Furthermore, Ablakwa revealed that Service Ghana Auto Group Limited had received a staggering GH₵115,342,573 for substandard servicing of the ambulances between 2020 and 2023, according to GIFMIS assessments. This figure, combined with the $34.9 million spare parts deal, means the company will make a total of GH₵653 million from the ambulances—more than double the original cost of the ambulances in 2019.

    “This means, so far, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited alone will be making a mind-boggling GH₵653 million from these ambulances. This figure is more than double how much the ambulances cost us in 2019,” he added.

    Ablakwa suggested that the procurement could be part of a “create, loot, and share” scheme rather than a genuine effort to enhance emergency medical services. He has announced plans to petition the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to launch an investigation into the controversial deal.

  • Ofori-Atta approved $34.9M for ambulance parts before leaving Finance Ministry – Ablakwa

    Ofori-Atta approved $34.9M for ambulance parts before leaving Finance Ministry – Ablakwa

    In his latest exposé on financial mismanagement and corruption, North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has unveiled documents from Ghana’s Ministry of Finance, revealing a scandal involving a $34.9 million payment authorized by former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta just five days before leaving office.

    According to Ablakwa, the funds were intended for spare parts for the 307 ambulances distributed under the One District One Ambulance initiative.

    The documents show that on February 9, 2024, Ofori-Atta approved the payment to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited. On the same day, he directed the Controller and Accountant-General to release $10 million (GHS 120,711,000), which the company received on February 23, 2024.

    Ablakwa’s analysis reveals that the spare parts cost per ambulance is $113,695.456, exceeding the value of many fully equipped new ambulances. This raises questions about the justification for such a high expenditure when new ambulances could have been purchased for the same or less.

    “In his last shockingly sleazy conduct, Ken Ofori-Atta, by a letter dated February 9, 2024, approved a staggering US$34,904,505.00 to be paid to the discredited Service Ghana Auto Group Limited for the procurement of spare parts for the 307 ambulances purchased by the government in 2019.

    “On the same February 9, 2024, the busy Finance minister instructed the Controller and Accountant-General to release US$ 10 million, equivalent to GHS120,711,000.00.

    “My impeccable tracking of this transaction confirms that the Controller and Accountant-General processed and released the GHS120,711,000.00 on February 23, 2024, which was promptly received in the accounts of Service Ghana Auto Group Limited,” Mr Ablakwa wrote.

    He added that “an analysis of this dubiously outrageous transaction valued at US$34,904,505.00 for spare parts for 307 ambulances actually translates into US$113,695.456.00 per ambulance.

    “Instructively, checks from many Mercedes Benz ambulance dealers across the world show that US$113,695,456.00 is far more than the value of a considerable number of modern fully equipped new ambulances.”

    Further investigations, according to Ablakwa, reveal that Service Ghana Auto Group Limited was incorporated on April 24, 2020, more than a year after President Akufo-Addo commissioned the 307 ambulances in January 2019. He claims the company was awarded the contract without a competitive procurement process, raising suspicions of favoritism and lack of due diligence.

    Ablakwa notes that Service Ghana Auto Group Limited had already received GHS 115,342,573 for servicing the ambulances between 2020 and 2023 and that the company stands to make a total of GHS 653 million from the transactions, which is more than double the cost of the ambulances purchased in 2019.

    He said the contract awarded to Service Ghana Auto was controversial because a special audit by the Auditor-General cited several issues, including inflated invoices, misuse of National Ambulance Service staff for maintenance, breaches of maintenance schedules, and an unfavorable MoU with the National Ambulance Service.

    In his publication, the MP announced plans to formally petition the Office of the Special Prosecutor to conduct criminal investigations into the matter. He emphasized the need to hold those responsible accountable and protect the public purse from further exploitation.

    “I intend to formally petition the Office of the Special Prosecutor this week for his office to conduct criminal investigations into this sordid affair,” he stated.

    Read the full publication by the MP below:

    THE US$34.9 MILLION (GHS538 MILLION) AMBULANCE SCANDAL AND HOW SERVICE GHANA AUTO GROUP LIMITED HAS MADE A COOL GHS653MILLION THROUGH INFLATED INVOICES

    Unimpeachable intercepted documents from Ghana’s Ministry of Finance reveal yet another scandal of ginormous proportions.

    Five days before leaving the Ministry of Finance after President Akufo-Addo’s lame-duck Valentine Day reshuffle, Ken Ofori-Atta decided to teach us one more unforgettable bitter lesson. Perhaps, it was his special way of exiting with a vengeance after incessant and relentless calls from suffering Ghanaians to have him sacked.

    In a grand ‘lootocratic’ conspiracy with the outgoing Health Minister, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu who was also affected by the reshuffle, the two abysmal performing ministers decided to cause more financial loss — it seems from the Sputnik V scandal, mismanagement of billions of covid funds, benefiting directly from loans accumulated, all the way to Ghana’s current bankruptcy — the two outgoing disastrous ministers didn’t think they have already wreaked enough havoc to have mercy on us.

    In his last shockingly sleazy conduct, Ken Ofori-Atta by a letter dated 9th February, 2024 approved a staggering US$34,904,505.00 to be paid to the discredited Service Ghana Auto Group Limited for the procurement of spare parts for the 307 ambulances purchased by government in 2019.

    On the same 9th February, 2024, the busy Finance Minister instructed the Controller and Accountant-General to release US$10million, equivalent to GHS120,711,000.00.

    My impeccable tracking of this transaction confirms that the Controller and Accountant-General processed and released the GHS120,711,000.00 on February 23, 2024 which was promptly received in the accounts of Service Ghana Auto Group Limited.

    An analysis of this dubiously outrageous transaction valued at US$34,904,505.00 for spare parts for 307 ambulances, actually translates into US$113,695.456.00 per ambulance.

    Instructively, checks from many Mercedes Benz ambulance dealers across the world show that US$113,695,456.00 is far more than the value of a considerable number of modern fully equipped new ambulances.

    Why sign a rip-off and an unconscionable sweetheart deal of US$113,695.456.00 just for spare parts when you can buy a new fully equipped modern Mercedes Benz ambulance for the same value, and even less?

    What happened to value for money and love for country?

    Further parliamentary oversight reveals that Service Ghana Auto Group Limited was incorporated on April 24, 2020.

    Service Ghana Auto Group Limited was therefore incorporated more than a year after the 307 new ambulances were commissioned by President Akufo-Addo on January 28, 2019.

    Typical of how this incurably corrupt government operates, the company was handpicked without a competitive procurement process.

    Additionally, Government appears not to have done much due diligence on the directors of the company — I shall return to this in much detail later.

    Deeper parliamentary oversight through GIFMIS assessments also confirms that even before this US$34.9million scandalous Ken Ofori-Atta/Agyeman-Manu send-off package, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited has received a colossal GHS115,342,573 in payments for shoddy servicing of the ambulances between 2020 and 2023.

    This means, so far, Service Ghana Auto Group Limited alone will be making a mind-boggling GHS653million from these ambulances. This figure is more than double of how much the ambulances cost us in 2019. (Prevailing exchange rate of US$54million which was the cost of the 307 ambulances in 2019.)

    One wonders if the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government procured the ambulances to save lives or they were procured to serve as an unbridled cash cow for corrupt politicians and their business collaborators.

    What is even more depressing, the Auditor-General’s special audit titled — Performance Audit Report of the Auditor-General on Fleet Management of the National Ambulance Service which was published on May 25, 2022 had the following extremely damning conclusions about Service Ghana Auto Group Limited:

    I) Service Ghana Auto Group Limited inflated invoices;

    II) Service Ghana Auto Group Limited in many instances used staff of the National Ambulance Service for its maintenance even though all payments went to their company;

    III) Service Ghana Auto Group Limited consistently breached maintenance schedules and procedures and

    IV) The Service Ghana Auto Group Limited MoU with the National Ambulance Service did not inure to the benefit of the National Ambulance Service.

    How can any Government which claims to care about protecting the public purse be aware of this damning audit report and still proceed to award an even bigger contract of US$34.9million (GHS538million) when Ghana did not get value for money after previously paying Service Ghana Auto Group Limited GHS115million?

    It is also worth remembering that this is the same company which was exposed in a viral video a couple of years ago when an ambulance sent to them to be serviced was rather used to cart cement by their unscrupulous staff. (See attached the pathetic apology they issued at the time).

    Who would have predicted that a government trying everything by hook or crook to have Minority Leader, Hon. Dr. Ato Forson convicted in that infamous ambulance trial for allegedly causing financial loss of €2.37million will itself be recklessly, mindlessly and criminally causing real financial loss in excess of US$34.9million through another ambulance transaction.

    Tomorrow is indeed pregnant.

    I intend to formally petition the Office of the Special Prosecutor this week for his office to conduct criminal investigations into this sordid affair.

    Stinky create, loot and share shall be fearlessly defeated!

    For God and Country.

    Ghana First.

  • I first heard of the “Siren L.I.” on Facebook – Okudzeto

    I first heard of the “Siren L.I.” on Facebook – Okudzeto

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has disclosed that he first encountered the controversial Legislative Instrument (LI) allowing the use of sirens and exempting certain officials from speed limits on Facebook, rather than through official parliamentary channels.

    His revelation has sparked calls for an urgent review of the procedures governing the laying of LIs in Parliament.

    The proposed LI, which sought to amend the Road Traffic Regulations 2012 to permit Members of Parliament, Ministers, and judges to use sirens and drive without speed limits, was withdrawn on Tuesday following widespread public outcry.

    Mr Ablakwa’s discovery of the LI on social media underscores significant concerns about the transparency and accessibility of the legislative process.

    Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsfile, Mr Ablakwa expressed his frustration with the current system, noting that many MPs, including himself, did not have access to the document when it was initially laid before Parliament in June 2024.

    “I first heard of the ‘Siren L.I.’ on Facebook,” he stated, highlighting a critical lapse in the dissemination of essential legislative information. Despite his active role as a Member of Parliament, Ablakwa was surprised to learn about the LI through social media rather than through official channels.

    “We have to admit that this matter has not covered Parliament in glory. There are so many pieces to this puzzle that Parliament itself must review. That is why I put out a statement saying that we need to conduct an investigation into this matter and the way LIs are laid,” Ablakwa said.

    He criticized the current system, where only members of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee have early access to LIs, leaving other MPs without copies until the 21-day review period is over.

    “It is wrong, we have turned the whole procedure upside down. So that portion of our constitution and our Standing Orders needs urgent review,” he emphasized.

  • Standing Orders on laying of LIs needs urgent review – Ablakwa

    Standing Orders on laying of LIs needs urgent review – Ablakwa

    Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has called for an urgent overhaul of the procedures governing the laying of Legislative Instruments (LIs) in Parliament.

    His demand for reform comes in light of recent controversies surrounding the handling of a Legislative Instrument that sought to amend the Road Traffic Regulations 2012.

    The proposed LI, which aimed to permit Members of Parliament, Ministers, and judges to use sirens and drive without speed limits, was withdrawn on Tuesday following widespread public outcry. Ablakwa’s call for reform underscores concerns about the transparency and accessibility of legislative processes.

    Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsfile, Ablakwa revealed that he first encountered the controversial LI not through official parliamentary channels but on Facebook, despite his active role as a Member of Parliament.

    He pointed out that many MPs, including himself, did not have access to the document when it was initially laid before Parliament in June 2024.

    “We have to admit that this matter has not covered Parliament in glory. There are so many pieces to this puzzle that Parliament itself must review. That is why I put out a statement saying that we need to conduct an investigation into this matter and the way LIs are laid,” Ablakwa said.

    He criticized the current system, where only members of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee have early access to LIs, leaving other MPs without copies until the 21-day review period is over.

    “It is wrong, we have turned the whole procedure upside down. So that portion of our constitution and our Standing Orders needs urgent review,” he emphasized.

  • Gov’t not responsible for GHC5.3m compensation to Bulgarian Embassy – Lands Ministry

    Gov’t not responsible for GHC5.3m compensation to Bulgarian Embassy – Lands Ministry

    The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has categorically refuted the recent claims made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu.

    According to Mr Ablakwa, the government allegedly owes GH¢5.3 million in compensation to the Bulgarian Embassy.

    In a statement released on Thursday, July 18, the Ministry dismissed Ablakwa’s assertions as entirely baseless and misleading.

    The statement clarified that there is no financial obligation on the part of the government towards the Bulgarian Embassy.

    Mr. Ablakwa had previously alleged that the government was set to compensate the Bulgarian government with GH¢5,383,000 due to the demolition of its embassy in 2017.

    He stated that this compensation amount was determined by the Land Valuation Division of the Lands Commission last year and warned that the figure could increase significantly because of the depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi.

    Contrary to these claims, the Lands Ministry insisted that the government’s position remains unequivocal: no compensation is owed to the Bulgarian Embassy. The Ministry highlighted that the recommended payment was to be made by Jojo Hagan, who was responsible for ordering the demolition.

    “The attention of the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has, again, been drawn to allegations by the Hon. Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, to the effect that Government is supposed to pay the Bulgarian Embassy an amount of Five Million, Three Hundred and Eighty-Three Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS5,383,000.00) for demolishing their building.”

    The Ministry further clarified: “A cursory reading of the Executive Summary of the Report of the Sole Inquirer appointed to investigate the matter, which was published in a Press Release issued on 16th May 2022, and the documents attached to the Hon. Member’s post, will show that this allegation is false, and without basis.”

    The Ministry emphasized its commitment to transparency and the dissemination of accurate information. It assured both the public and the diplomatic community that Ghana adheres to international standards in its dealings with foreign missions and embassies.

    The Ministry also stressed that any grievances or claims by foreign embassies are addressed through appropriate legal and diplomatic channels, ensuring that misinformation does not mislead the public.

    Bulgarian_Embassy_Press_Release_Jul_18_2024-2Download
  • Many MPs were not happy with L.I on siren use – Ablakwa

    Many MPs were not happy with L.I on siren use – Ablakwa

    The North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that many lawmakers within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) were unhappy with the proposed Legislative Instrument (L.I.) that sought to allow MPs and Ministers to use sirens and be exempted from speed limits.

    Mr. Ablakwa highlighted that numerous NDC MPs were unaware of the specifics of the L.I. until it became public.

    “When this matter became public on our platforms, many MPs said, what is this? We are seeing it for the first time. It was Franklin Cudjoe who put it up. There were protests. MPs were not happy. That is why our caucus leader had to issue a statement. Could you believe that even the leadership of our caucus didn’t know the content of this?” he stated during an interview on JoyFM’s SMS on July 18.

    The revelation that the minority leadership was uninformed led to calls for the L.I.’s withdrawal.

    Ablakwa explained, “He also issued a memo to leadership of all committees that, before any matter is finalized and laid on the floor, they should let him see it. I have received a copy of that memo. So look, I have said publicly that I don’t support this. I think it’s needless.”

    Expressing his opposition to the L.I., Mr. Ablakwa argued for easing road congestion for all citizens rather than granting privileges to specific groups. “Why not ease the burden for everybody? Why do you want to take the ruling class out and I have seen that, from what has been put out in the media, they have added security operatives and all that. It is such a wide ambit. We don’t need that.”

    He further emphasized, “This is so needless. It is a useless distraction. I am surprised that such a thing was brought to the house in the first place and contemplated.”

    In response, Nana Akomea, Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation (STC), accused the NDC of hypocrisy. He pointed out that the chairperson of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee is an NDC member, suggesting that the L.I. came from a minority-led committee.

    “There is an attempt to put it on government. That it is government that is bringing an L.I. I could say to you that the subsidiary legislation is chaired by the NDC. So if anything goes through that committee, then whatever goes through there is inspired by the NDC.”

    Deputy Transport Minister Hassan Tampuli expressed relief that the L.I. had been withdrawn, acknowledging that it originated from the committee and not the government.

    “So these provisions were not from the government, it came from Parliament and nobody among the Subsidiary Legislation Committee can say, it isn’t from there and we are happy to be withdrawing this L.I.,” Tampuli noted.

  • L.I. on siren use for MPs was so needless, a useless distraction – Ablakwa

    L.I. on siren use for MPs was so needless, a useless distraction – Ablakwa

    The North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has criticized the proposed Legislative Instrument (L.I.) that sought to allow MPs and Ministers to use sirens and be exempted from speed limits, calling it “so needless” and “a useless distraction.”

    Mr. Ablakwa highlighted that many lawmakers within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) were unhappy with the L.I., as they were unaware of its specifics until it became public.

    “When this matter became public on our platforms, many MPs said, what is this? We are seeing it for the first time. It was Franklin Cudjoe who put it up. There were protests. MPs were not happy. That is why our caucus leader had to issue a statement. Could you believe that even the leadership of our caucus didn’t know the content of this?” he said on JoyFM’s SMS on July 18.

    The revelation that the minority leadership was uninformed led to calls for the L.I.’s withdrawal.

    Mr Ablakwa explained, “He also issued a memo to leadership of all committees that, before any matter is finalized and laid on the floor, they should let him see it. I have received a copy of that memo. So look, I have said publicly that I don’t support this. I think it’s needless.”

    Expressing his opposition to the L.I., Mr. Ablakwa argued for easing road congestion for all citizens rather than granting privileges to specific groups.

    “Why not ease the burden for everybody? Why do you want to take the ruling class out and I have seen that, from what has been put out in the media, they have added security operatives and all that. It is such a wide ambit. We don’t need that.”

    He further emphasized, “This is so needless. It is a useless distraction. I am surprised that such a thing was brought to the house in the first place and contemplated.”

    In response, Nana Akomea, Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation (STC), accused the NDC of hypocrisy. He pointed out that the chairperson of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee is an NDC member, suggesting that the L.I. came from a minority-led committee.

    “There is an attempt to put it on government. That it is government that is bringing an L.I. I could say to you that the subsidiary legislation is chaired by the NDC. So if anything goes through that committee, then whatever goes through there is inspired by the NDC.”

    Deputy Transport Minister Hassan Tampuli expressed relief that the L.I. had been withdrawn, acknowledging that it originated from the committee and not the government.

    “So these provisions were not from the government, it came from Parliament and nobody among the Subsidiary Legislation Committee can say, it isn’t from there and we are happy to be withdrawing this L.I.,” Tampuli noted.

  • Okudzeto lives in a $3m mansion in Accra – NPP’s Adenta Kumi

    Okudzeto lives in a $3m mansion in Accra – NPP’s Adenta Kumi

    Parliamentary hopeful for Adenta Constituency, Alfred Ababio Larbi Kumi also known as Adenta Kumi, has alleged that North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, owns mansions within and outside the country worth millions of dollars.

    Adenta Kumi who sides with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) made the allegation on Metro TV’s Good Evening Ghana programme hosted by Paul Adom-Otchere.

    He alleged that Ablakwa had two houses with a total worth of US$4.5 million. A US$3m house in Accra and a US$1.5m lake house in his constituency North Tongu.

    “When people were building hotels, he was building houses everywhere. I have more than evidence. He owns a $3million house at Airport Hills. That is where he lives. He who calls for equity must come with clean hands.”

    “What work has he done? He should come and tell us,” he added.

    @theawalmohammed Adenta Kumi said Sammy Okudjeto Ablakwa having joined politics straight from school lives in a 3million dollar house in Accra and owns a 1.5 million dollar house by the lake at the village plus an over 100 k dollar house in the US. Do you believe it? Watch video and have your say… 5mins #ndcneveragain #ItIsPossible #Letswatchit ♬ original sound – TheAwalMohammed

    Meanwhile, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has taken a swipe at detractors who he claims are fighting him over his dogged fight against state capture.

    In a cryptic post on June 22, 2024, the lawmaker said unlike in the past when he was accused of owning fuel stations nationwide, now he is referred to as owner of mansions across the world.

    “It seems that these days I no longer own fuel stations across the country; now they say I own mansions all over the world.

  • You confirmed my state capture exposé in your selective statement – Ablakwa hits back at Lands Minister

    You confirmed my state capture exposé in your selective statement – Ablakwa hits back at Lands Minister

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has fired back at the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources following its recent denial of allegations that state lands are being unfairly sold under the current government.

    Mr Ablakwa has accused the Ministry of attempting to refute well-documented evidence of what he terms as state capture during the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 16, the Ministry categorically denied Ablakwa’s accusations, labeling them baseless and politically motivated.

    The Ministry asserted that no state lands have been sold under the Akufo-Addo-led government, suggesting instead that any controversies over government lands arose during previous administrations.

    However, in a Facebook post on Wednesday, July 17, Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed his position, criticizing the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Samuel Abu Jinapor, for what he called a selective response to the allegations. Ablakwa maintained that he has consistently presented incontrovertible evidence of state capture both inside and outside Parliament.

    Mr Ablakwa specifically referenced several cases to substantiate his claims. He highlighted the sale of park and garden lands in Wa and Cantonments, where he accused the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources of validating his expose on the unlawful transactions.

    He pointed out discrepancies between Minister Jinapor’s statements and those made by other government officials regarding the ownership and status of these lands.

    Regarding the E.B. Dubois Centre, Ablakwa cited a 50-year agreement signed in 2023 between the government and the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation.

    He questioned the Ministry’s stance on the matter, emphasizing conflicting accounts between different ministries concerning the land’s ownership and proposed developments.

    Mr Ablakwa also raised concerns over judicial service lands and the Ghana Prisons Service land at Roman Ridge, where he accused the Ministry of ignoring evidence and failing to acknowledge legal disputes over land ownership.

    In conclusion, he criticized what he described as efforts by the Ministry to downplay serious allegations of state capture, insisting that selective responses and partisan comparisons do not alter the reality faced by ordinary Ghanaians affected by these land controversies.

  • SSNIT hotels: I don’t hate Byran Acheampong – Ablakwa

    SSNIT hotels: I don’t hate Byran Acheampong – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, clarified that his criticisms of Bryan Acheampong, owner of Rock City Hotel and Minister of Agriculture, are not personal.

    Ablakwa’s concerns arose from the controversial sale of Social Security and National Insurance Trust’s (SSNIT) 60% shares in four hotels to Rock City Hotel.

    His opposition led to the disclosure of transaction details and prompted SSNIT to halt the sale amid threats of a strike by Organised Labour.

    Following Rock City Hotel’s withdrawal from the bid, Organised Labour canceled their planned strike. In an interview on Face to Face with Umaru Sanda Amadu on Channel One TV, Ablakwa reiterated his longstanding opposition to what he termed “state capture.”

    He criticized the practice of selling state assets to individuals, asserting that it often fails to benefit the country and brings no tangible advantages.

    “Why would anybody make this just about Hon Bryan Acheampong? That it is probably something personal or I have some personal hatred for him. He has been saying it, this is not about hatred, it’s not about singling out one person. I have been consistent, and I have always opposed this state capture, this sale of state assets.

    “And if you look at the history since 24th February 1966, virtually all the regimes have been engaged in these sales. What has come out of it? We have seen a pattern where public officials deliberately run down state assets and then turn around to buy them. If these hotels are not good for all of us, why should they be good for you? Why should they be good for one person?”

    “If Hon Bryan Acheampong is such a great hotelier, hotelier extraordinaire, the best the world has ever known and has all the acumen, the expertise to turn hotels around. Why can’t he bring it to bear now that he’s in cabinet, and his government is in power?

    “He has all the influence. He will only bring that expertise to bear when the hotel becomes his. When he has controlling shares, 60%.”

  • GHC379m spent on National Cathedral hole not GHC339m – Okudzeto

    GHC379m spent on National Cathedral hole not GHC339m – Okudzeto

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has accused the government of underreporting the amount of money spent on the national cathedral project.

    The Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, Abena Osei Asare, confirmed in Parliament on Wednesday, July 3, that the government has spent more than GH¢339 million on the National Cathedral project, which has been stalled for some time.

    She responded to an urgent query raised by the Deputy Majority Leader, Patricia Appiagyei, seeking clarification on the funds allocated and expended on the contentious project.

    The Deputy Finance Minister also mentioned that the accounts of the National Cathedral are currently undergoing audit.

    “The total releases made for the National Cathedral by the government to date remain at GH¢339 million. This figure comprises GH¢225 million paid to the National Cathedral Secretariat, and GH¢113 million paid directly to the project consultant.

    “There was a value-for-money audit done on the project in 2021. Also, a statutory audit of the National Cathedral of Ghana accounts by Deloitte Ghana was started in July 2023 and is ongoing.

    “Auditors had concluded the audit of the 18-month account ended December 31, 2020. Meanwhile, preparations are in place for the auditors to complete the remaining accounts for the periods ended December 31, 2021, 2022 and 2023.”

    But according to Mr Ablakwa, the figure revealed by the Minister does not reflect the true picture on the ground.

    In a post on X, he claimed that GHS379million has been spent.

    He noted that the Minister stated that GHS33,444,704.74 was raised in Ghana and US$427,701 was raised in the US.

    However, he says the US figure is significantly different from what was declared to US tax authorities.

    “That notwithstanding, we would have to add these private donations to the taxes illegally withdrawn for the project in order to have a more accurate picture. Tax Withdrawals — GHS339,003,064.86 Private Donations (Ghana) — GHS33,444,704.74 Private Donations (USA) — US$427,701.00,” he added.

    The National Cathedral project, which began in 2020, has been surrounded by controversy from the outset. Its construction has sparked debates across various sectors of society, focusing on the necessity and timing of such a large-scale structure, as well as concerns regarding the transparency and management of allocated funds.

  • Land occupied by Du Bois Centre hasn’t been sold or lease – Lands Ministry

    Land occupied by Du Bois Centre hasn’t been sold or lease – Lands Ministry

    The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources has refuted allegations made by North Tongu Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, claiming that the current government is selling state lands to its cronies.

    The Ministry has dismissed these allegations as entirely false and has called on the Ghanaian public to disregard them.

    Mr. Ablakwa has been vocal about the alleged sale of state lands, including properties belonging to the Parks and Gardens, the Ghana Prisons Service, and others.

    He also claimed that lands currently housing judges have been sold, forcing the judges to vacate their premises within a specified period.

    In a press statement issued on Tuesday, July 16, and signed by the sector Minister, Samuel Abu Jinapor, the Ministry asserted that the Akufo-Addo-led government has not sold any state lands.

    The statement further clarified that any government lands currently under public scrutiny were sold during the previous administration of John Mahama, of which Mr. Ablakwa was a member.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the land occupied by the Du Bois Centre, the subject matter of the Member of Parliament’s allegations, has neither been sold nor leased to any private entity,” the statement read. “From the foregoing, it is clear that the lands, the subject matter of the Member of Parliament’s allegations, were not sold and/or leased under the current administration, and the allegations of state capture are, therefore, false.”

    The Ministry described Mr. Ablakwa’s allegations as politically motivated and urged Ghanaians to dismiss them.

    The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources reassured the public of the government’s commitment to efficient and effective land administration, rooted in the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and public interest.

    “President Akufo-Addo is committed to an efficient and effective land administration that is anchored on the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and candour, in the public interest,” the statement emphasized.

    “The Ministry will, therefore, continue to work with all stakeholders to deliver an effective, transparent, responsive, and orderly land administration which is above board and steeped in integrity.”

    PRESS-RELEASE-ALLEGATIONS-OF-STATE-CAPTURE-IN-RESPECT-OF-PUBLIC-LANDSDownload
  • Don’t dare harm or mistreat Ablakwa – Austin Gamey tells Bryan Acheampong

    Don’t dare harm or mistreat Ablakwa – Austin Gamey tells Bryan Acheampong

    Labour expert Austin Gamey has issued a stern warning to Minister for Food and Agriculture Bryan Acheampong, advising him to refrain from issuing threats to North Tongu legislator Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa.

    This caution from Mr Gamey follows recent remarks made by Acheampong, accusing Ablakwa of politicizing the Social Security and National Insurance Trust’s (SSNIT) sale of its stake in four hotels.

    In an interview with Accra-based Citi News, Bryan Acheampong alleged that Ablakwa’s actions were politically motivated, targeting him personally rather than addressing the interests of SSNIT or the hotels involved.

    Mr Acheampong’s comments sparked concerns among observers, including Austin Gamey, who viewed them as potential threats against the MP.

    “Some may say he is slow, but it is better to hasten slowly sometimes,” Gamey remarked on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, addressing the issue.

    “I appreciate what they have done, and we must also congratulate our friend and brother, Hon. Sammy Okudzeto Ablakwa. Anyone who dares to harm or mistreat him will do so at their peril and will never be forgiven.”

    Mr Gamey, known for his advocacy in labor matters, praised Mr Ablakwa’s efforts in scrutinizing the SSNIT hotel sale and ensuring transparency in government dealings.

    He emphasized the importance of respecting democratic processes and warned against any actions that could threaten the integrity of public officials.

    Furthermore, Gamey underscored the role of organized labor in holding government accountable and safeguarding public assets. He encouraged young people and future leaders to emulate Ablakwa’s commitment to transparency and accountability when entrusted with positions of authority.

    “We should demand the dismantling of inappropriate practices and ensure that only the right decisions are made,” Gamey emphasized. “We all must act appropriately and responsibly.”

  • I doubt Jubilee House is still a State property – Ablakwa

    I doubt Jubilee House is still a State property – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has raised doubts over the ownership status of Jubilee House, the seat of Ghana’s Executive branch, amidst allegations of state capture.

    In a discussion on Onua FM on July 13, 2024, he expressed concern that the government has allegedly privatized several state assets, particularly to party affiliates, casting doubt on the integrity of these national resources.

    “I cannot really vouch for what truly is in the name of Ghana,” he said.

    “Are you aware the Teshie shooting range is gone? The Prison Barracks is also gone under a PPP arrangement. So, I really don’t know, probably apart from Jubilee House, and even that I’m not sure. The issue of state capture is not a joke; everything is going,” he asked.

    Ablakwa’s remarks coincide with the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) halting the sale of a 60% stake in four of its hotels, following public outcry.

    Following the cancellation of the proposed sale of a 60% stake in four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), the organization issued a statement on July 12, 2024, announcing the termination of this controversial transaction.

    “The Board and management of the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) wish to inform the public that the process to divest 60% of SSNIT’s stake in the hotels has been terminated,” the board chair stated.

    SSNIT emphasized its dedication to managing the Trust’s affairs responsibly, ensuring the sustainability of the Pension Scheme for pensioners and contributors alike.

  • List of 12 assets Okudzeto ’stopped’ govt from selling

    List of 12 assets Okudzeto ’stopped’ govt from selling

    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:

    1. Land belonging to the Nigerian High Commission, which he alleges was targeted for a midnight demolition operation by unidentified actors.
    2. Land owned by the Bulgarian Embassy, allegedly subject to clandestine demolition efforts by high-ranking political appointees under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration.
    3. Parks and Gardens Land in Cantonments and Wa.
    4. Airport Lands implicated in the Heaven Scandal.
    5. Successful prevention of attempts to demolish the Accra International Conference Centre.
    6. 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.
    7. Labadi Beach Hotel
    8. La Palm Royal Resort
    9. Elmina Beach Hotel
    10. Ridge Royal Hotel
    11. Busua Beach Hotel
    12. 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.

  • I won’t be part of a Mahama gov’t that steals state assets – Ablakwa declares

    I won’t be part of a Mahama gov’t that steals state assets – Ablakwa declares

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has firmly stated his stance against any future government under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that engages in state capture.

    Speaking on Onua TV’s morning show, Maakye, on Monday, July 15, 2024, Ablakwa emphasized that he would resign from any administration that indulges in practices detrimental to the nation’s assets.

    The outspoken lawmaker highlighted his commitment to integrity and accountability in public office, asserting, “I will not just speak, but I will resign from the government. I won’t be part of it. That we come to power and these things that we are condemning, we come and do the same things, I won’t be part of such a government. I’ll just be in Parliament and I’ll be paid for it.”

    Ablakwa further underscored that his livelihood does not depend on holding a ministerial position, stating there are numerous avenues outside government where he can thrive.

    His comments come amidst recent controversies surrounding attempts to sell a 60% stake of SSNIT in four hotels, which he has actively opposed.

    “I don’t have to be a Minister before I can eat. There are so many things I can do. There are so many people who are not in government who are doing well,” Ablakwa added.

    Echoing sentiments expressed by NDC flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, Ablakwa welcomed Mahama’s commitment to prevent his appointees from acquiring state assets.

    He cited Mahama’s recent pledge during a media engagement where he vowed that no member of his administration would engage in such practices.

    “I was happy when former President Mahama clearly said at his press conference that he won’t allow any member of his government to buy state assets,” Ablakwa affirmed. He expressed optimism that the proposed Protection of Public Assets Bill, aimed at prohibiting public officials from acquiring state properties, would be enacted before the commencement of any future NDC government.

    Mahama, addressing concerns of political ethics and transparency, reiterated his commitment to ethical governance practices during his media engagement. He emphasized that under his leadership, all appointees would adhere strictly to a code of conduct prohibiting the purchase of state assets.

    “We will cut out waste, we will eliminate opulence, and we will introduce a code of conduct for public appointees, especially political appointees, regarding how they behave in terms of their modesty and humility,” Mahama stated.

    In response to ongoing concerns about political ethics and transparency, Mr Ablakwa has announced plans to lead a team of lawyers in drafting a private member’s bill addressing the issue of politicians buying and selling state assets.

    He emphasized the need to curb practices that have persisted across administrations, including under the current Akufo-Addo regime.

  • Ghanaian judges run to court as private developers demolish their homes

    Ghanaian judges run to court as private developers demolish their homes

    Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made further revelations after indicating that Ghanaian courts are currently embroiled in legal disputes over land that they possess.

    In an interview on TV3’s The KeyPoints show, he made new information available, which reveals that 13 bungalows belonging to judges located opposite the American Embassy are no longer in sight.

    “When the private developers told them that they are the new owners started demolishing, judges run to their fellow judges for an injunction. Hey, we have nowhere else to stay, save us. I have the court documents here,” he said.

    The case is Judicial Service of Ghana (plaintiff) against Lands Commission, Frames Oil Company Limited and Attorney General.

    “Unprecedented. Judges running to judges to save them,” he exclaimed in a sentiment expressing disbelief.

    In an interview on Metro TV, the indicated that the Minister of Local Government and Decentralisation, Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah has become helpless due to government’s actions.

    “So when we talk about the state capture, judges have to run to their colleague judges to save them. You wonder what is happening is there no adult in the room. Look at the Local Minister, he is helpless, he wants to protect the land. Look at this Cantoments land, government took one out of two containers. The local has to run to goverment. Now the court is in court with the government. What is going on in this country?,” he added.

    In recent weeks, the MP has leveled accusations against government officials, alleging state capture.

    Ablakwa specifically cited additional instances of government selling state properties, purportedly including assets belonging to the Ghana Prisons Service and the Department of Parks and Gardens.

    Meanwhile, the MP has affirmed his unwavering commitment to combating state capture and government corruption, asserting that no amount of intimidation would deter him.

  • Du Bois Centre has been leased to a private company for 50 years – Ablakwa

    Du Bois Centre has been leased to a private company for 50 years – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, has criticized the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration for transferring control of the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre to a newly incorporated private foundation.

    He alleges that the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation Ghana LBG., lacking a proven track record, has been granted a 50-year management contract for the Du Bois Centre.

    In a social media post on Wednesday, July 10, Ablakwa revealed that the agreement was signed on September 22, 2023, by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame.

    “The W.E.B. Du Bois Centre will now be managed and totally controlled by a private entity known as the W.E.B. Du Bois Museum Foundation Ghana LBG. The transfer agreement was signed by Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey and Ghana’s Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Hon. Godfred Yeboah Dame — both representing the Government of Ghana. They signed the transfer agreement on September 22, 2023.”

    “Under the 50-year agreement, the foundation will appoint a majority of 6 board of directors while the Government of Ghana appoints only 3. The foundation will also appoint the board chairman giving them absolute control. The bizarre agreement also ensures that only 2 Government of Ghana nominees will have top management positions as the foundation enjoys an unlimited number.”

  • NPP’s Eleblu will be retiring after the next elections – Ablakwa

    NPP’s Eleblu will be retiring after the next elections – Ablakwa

    Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has set his sights on another term in Parliament, confident of overwhelming victory in the upcoming elections against his contender, Dr. John Elebulu of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    Speaking at the press launch of the Tongu Chiefs Union in Juapong, Ablakwa expressed his conviction that Dr. Elebulu stands no chance against him.

    “Dr. Elebulu is of no match to me in the upcoming parliamentary elections,” he asserted, citing the National Democratic Congress (NDC)’s strong standing in the constituency and his personal popularity among constituents.

    “Can you imagine if Tongu Chief Union says that a particular politician will not be given the green light to campaign, that is the end of your career, and if you are not careful you will go into early retirement, like the way my brother Eleblu will be retiring after the next elections“, he said.

    Highlighting his track record, Ablakwa emphasized his commitment to the development of North Tongu. He pledged to ensure that Dr. Elebulu, a lecturer by profession, would be given a role to contribute to Tongu’s progress, despite their political rivalry.

    Reflecting on past electoral victories, Ablakwa recalled his landslide wins in 2016 and 2020. In 2016, he secured 75.49% of the votes, defeating Dr. Elebulu’s father, Christopher Kofi Eleblu, who contested as an independent candidate after leaving the NDC. I

    n the 2020 elections, Ablakwa widened his margin, garnering 89.71% of the total votes, showcasing a significant increase in support from previous years.

    Looking forward, Ablakwa expressed confidence that voters would once again endorse his candidature, citing his proven dedication to serving the interests of North Tongu.

    He vowed to continue advocating for development projects and addressing the needs of constituents, ensuring their voices are heard in parliament.

  • Akosombo Dam spillage victims are yet to be fully compensated by govt – Ablakwa

    Akosombo Dam spillage victims are yet to be fully compensated by govt – Ablakwa

    North Tongu Member of Parliament (MP) Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has expressed concerns about the delayed compensation for hundreds of victims affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage in Tongu.

    He emphasized that these individuals have not received full compensation from the government even after 10 months.

    Addressing Chiefs and Queen mothers of Tongu in Juapong, Mr. Ablakwa underscored the importance of upholding the fundamental human rights of the affected individuals. He noted that many residents are still living in temporary shelters, while farmers whose crops were destroyed and residents whose homes were inundated await adequate compensation.

    Mr. Ablakwa disclosed that his office has obtained a letter from the Volta River Authority (VRA) indicating plans for a controlled spillage in the near future. He stressed the need for an emergency preparedness plan, alternative drainage solutions, and continued dialogue with local leaders and stakeholders to prevent a recurrence of last year’s devastating events.

    Moreover, the MP mentioned that his legal team is compiling detailed information and verifying property losses to pursue rightful compensation from the VRA.

    Additionally, he called on the government to prioritize the reconstruction of the Sayikope steel bridge, which collapsed on January 26, disrupting daily activities and endangering schoolchildren and pregnant women who rely on boats to cross to Adidome.

  • No govt official will acquire state properties under Mahama – Ablakwa

    No govt official will acquire state properties under Mahama – Ablakwa

    The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has asserted that the practice of government officials acquiring state properties will be halted in the next National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration.

    He stated that if President Akufo-Addo refuses to sign the Private Members Bill he intends to introduce, which aims to prevent government officials from acquiring state assets, former President John Mahama will sign it if elected.

    Reflecting on former President Mahama’s recent media engagement, Ablakwa praised Mahama for assuring the nation that his government would not permit any member to purchase state assets.

    “It is most refreshing to hear former President John Mahama assure the nation during his masterful, inspirational, sincere and intellectually stimulating engagement with the media that no member of his government will be allowed to buy state assets.

    “We are convinced that even if President Akufo-Addo refuses to assent to our Private Member’s Bill prohibiting politicians and politically exposed persons from buying state assets, President Mahama will not hesitate in granting presidential assent when he wins the December 7, 2024 elections.

    “Very gratifying to know that the canker of State Capture will soon be vanquished under President Mahama.”

    Ablakwa expressed confidence that Mahama would approve the bill even if Akufo-Addo rejects it.

    Earlier, Ablakwa vowed to oppose any government official, regardless of party affiliation, who attempts to acquire state assets.

    He cited his longstanding opposition to state capture, noting his past legal challenge against former NPP National Chairman Jake Obetsebi Lamptey’s acquisition of state properties, despite losing that case.

    “This will be my position even if the person is a member of my party,” he said on the New Day show on TV3 on Wednesday, June 19.

    Ablakwa also criticized Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong’s involvement in attempting to acquire hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), alleging a conflict of interest due to Acheampong’s ministerial position during the acquisition process.