- Acheampong's company set to acquire 60% stake in SSNIT hotels, raising conflict of interest concerns.
- Ablakwa alleges constitutional violation and potential job losses.
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has filed a petition with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the sale of six hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Bryan Acheampong, the Minister for Food and Agriculture.
Ablakwa revealed that documents in his possession indicate that SSNIT is on the verge of selling a majority 60% stake in six of its hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, a company owned by Acheampong.
The MP is seeking an investigation into the sale, citing a lack of due process and violations of procurement procedures. He also wants CHRAJ to stop the sale of the hotels to Acheampong.
In his petition, Ablakwa alleges that the sale of SSNIT’s shares in the hotels lacks transparency and breaches conflict of interest rules. He also claims that Acheampong has not sought permission from the Speaker of Parliament to hold a profitable office, as required by the Constitution.
Ablakwa expressed concerns about potential job losses if the sale negotiations are concluded. He also questioned the rationale for selling profitable hotels, citing the need for transparency and accountability.
The hotels in question include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.
Ablakwa has a history of advocating for transparency in government dealings, having previously dragged the late Hon. Jake Obetsebi Lamptey to court over attempts to buy his official bungalow.
He emphasized that it is wrong and unethical for public officials, particularly ministers of state, to participate in the purchase of state assets.
Ablakwa urged CHRAJ to investigate the matter and stop the sale, citing the need to defeat state capture and protect the national interest.
He concluded by saying, “May God help us to defeat state capture, and to scuttle this opaque and unethical transaction, which is certainly not in the national interest. For God and Country. Ghana First.”
