PNP Petitions Mahama to Drop Ablakwa Over Alleged Misconduct
The People’s National Party (PNP) has formally petitioned President John Dramani Mahama, urging the immediate withdrawal of Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s nomination as Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs and his position as Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) committee. The petition, signed by PNP Chairperson Janet Nabla, raises significant ethical and financial concerns regarding Mr. Ablakwa’s suitability for these prominent roles.
Key Allegations Highlighted in the Petition:
1. Misuse of Parliamentary Loans: The PNP alleges that Mr. Ablakwa misappropriated funds intended for the acquisition of four-wheel vehicles for Members of Parliament’s constituency duties. Instead, he purportedly purchased saloon cars and a combine harvester for personal use. This action, the party contends, places an undue financial burden on taxpayers, who subsidize 60% of these loans.
2. Unexplained Wealth: Questions have been raised about Mr. Ablakwa and his wife’s ability to afford an apartment in the upscale Airport Hills area on a parliamentary salary. The PNP is calling for a comprehensive financial investigation to ascertain the legitimacy of his income sources.
3. Luxury Travel Preferences: During his vetting process, Mr. Ablakwa reportedly insisted on upgrading to business class travel at his own expense. The PNP argues that this behavior demonstrates a disconnect from the struggles of ordinary Ghanaians and raises concerns about his approach to managing public funds.
4. False Allegations: The petition accuses Mr. Ablakwa of previously making unverified claims about the children of a former president acquiring government land. The PNP contends that such reckless accusations undermine public trust in leadership.
In light of these concerns, the PNP is urging President Mahama to revoke Mr. Ablakwa’s appointments and to direct the Special Prosecutor to conduct a thorough investigation into his financial dealings and overall conduct.
This development follows a recent petition by Ernest Owusu-Bempah Bonsu, Deputy Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), to the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ). Owusu-Bempah’s petition alleges that Mr. Ablakwa violated Article 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution by engaging in a profitable venture without parliamentary approval, specifically citing his role as the director and sole shareholder of Volta Klenam Farms and Industries LTD.
As of now, there has been no official response from Mr. Ablakwa or his representatives regarding the PNP’s petition. The situation continues to evolve, and further developments are anticipated as the investigation progresses.
