News:
October 14, 2018
Ranking member on Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has written an open letter to the Chief of Staff, Akosua Frame Osei-Opare requesting for an update of ban imposed on Ministers and other appointees of President Akufo-Addo since the 21st of June this year.
According to the North Tongu lawmaker under the signature of the Chief of Staff, sector Ministers, their Deputies, heads of government agencies and MMDCEs were directed to temporarily suspend all foreign travels.
“Speaking on the matter to the press; both your Deputy, Mr. Samuel Abu Jinapor and former Information Minister, Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid vouched for the authenticity of the document which was at the time in wide circulation. They both attempted to offer some clarity and assured the nation that “soon” new guidelines covering future foreign travels will be developed as Government strives to cut expenditure and keep Ministers and other appointees focused on domestic duties”.
He further pointed out that the tendency of going public with bans of all sorts and remain silent thereafter hoping all Ghanaians will forget and move on does not promote trust in public office, neither does it create a good image of government and also destroys, “our quest for accountable governance”, he said.
“It has been four long months since this matter became the subject of national interest, Ghanaians deserve to know”.
Mr Ablakwa questioned if the ban is still in force? When would it be lifted? He also queried if the promised new guidelines are ready, and what is contained in the new guidelines? Can the taxpayer be informed how much had been saved and what has been the general impact assessment of the ban?
“With all due respect, it is imperative to point out that we seek to continue in the spirit of public engagement on this matter as initiated by your Government when your signed memorandum was made public and formed the basis for extensive commentary by numerous Government officials”.
By: Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/ghanamps.com