The Secretary-General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), Abraham Koomson, has defended Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa against criticism from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) over alleged discrepancies in records relating to the evacuation of Ghanaians from abroad.
Speaking on the issue, Mr Koomson questioned whether discrepancies involving dates of birth, names and other personal details were sufficient grounds to discredit the minister without first establishing who was responsible for the errors.
He suggested that some of the inconsistencies could have resulted from typographical mistakes or administrative challenges, particularly given the difficult circumstances surrounding the evacuation exercise.
Mr Koomson cited Ablakwa’s record of public service, including his criticism of government expenditure during the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, as evidence of his concern for public accountability and the protection of national resources.
He also referred to Ablakwa’s reported visit to Ukraine amid concerns that some Ghanaians had been lured into joining foreign military forces. Mr Koomson questioned why the minister would undertake such a risky mission if his primary motivation were personal financial gain.
However, the GFL Secretary-General maintained that public officials must be accountable for the use of taxpayers’ money and that allegations involving public expenditure should be investigated objectively and based on evidence.
He urged political actors to avoid unsubstantiated accusations and ensure that the controversy surrounding the evacuation exercise is resolved through a thorough examination of the facts.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah