Abass Nurudeen, the Ashanti Regional Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has raised serious allegations against the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum.
According to Nurudeen, credible intelligence suggests that Dr. Adutwum is allegedly engaging in questionable activities as his tenure as Education Minister appears to be winding down.
He claimed that these alleged actions include the hasty issuance of contracts and the appointment of consultants under opaque and suspicious circumstances.
He pointed out that some of these consultants are being offered exorbitant fees, with reports indicating that certain individuals are being paid as much as $120,000.
Nurudeen specifically mentioned a consultant referred to as “Vera” as one of the beneficiaries of these questionable engagements.
“We have been reliably informed about the intentions to sponsor certain individuals on trips to the UK with business class for holidays. These actions, if true, represent a blatant abuse of office, a misuse of public funds, and a betrayal of the trust Ghanaians placed in you.
“Let me remind you that your position is a public trust, not a personal privilege. Your primary duty is to serve the people of Ghana, not to advance personal or political interests”.
Abass Nurudeen
The NDC official described these actions as lacking transparency and accountability, calling for greater scrutiny of the Education Minister’s recent decisions.
He suggested that such last-minute maneuvers raise red flags, especially when viewed in the context of an impending change in administration.
Accordingly, Nurudeen issued a stern warning, stating that any attempts by Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum to abuse his authority or misappropriate public resources would be considered clear violations of the law.
He emphasized that such actions would not only breach the Public Procurement Act but also contravene other anti-corruption regulations designed to promote transparency, accountability, and prudent use of public funds.
Nurudeen stressed that the NDC, along with other stakeholders, would not hesitate to pursue legal action or demand a full-scale investigation should evidence of such misconduct surface. “As a public officer, you remain accountable for your actions, even after leaving office”.
Transition Not to Shield Accountability
Furthermore, Abass Nurudeen asserted that the impending transition of power would not serve as a shield for Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum against scrutiny or legal accountability.
He emphasized that any acts of impropriety, mismanagement, or abuse of office committed by the Minister of Education would be subject to thorough investigation, regardless of the change in government.
Nurudeen stressed that the principle of accountability transcends political transitions, adding that individuals entrusted with public office must be held to the highest standards of integrity.
He further cautioned that the NDC, in collaboration with relevant anti-corruption bodies, would ensure that no wrongdoing goes unpunished, thereby reinforcing the culture of transparency and justice in governance.
“Consider this a serious warning, any further acts that undermine public trust will face legal and public scrutiny.
“Your legacy is at stake, and you must choose whether you leave [the] office with dignity or face consequences for questionable decisions”.
Abass Nurudeen
He firmly urged the Minister of Education, Dr. Yaw Osei Adutwum, to immediately cease any actions that could be perceived as a misuse of state resources.
Nurudeen emphasized that public office is a position of trust, and those who hold such positions must prioritize the welfare and interests of the Ghanaian people above personal or partisan gain.
He stressed that public officials must act with transparency and fairness, as the era of impunity is over.
“Accountability is not optional, it is inevitable!” he declared, signaling a clear commitment to ensuring that those entrusted with public office face the full weight of the law if they betray the trust of the people.
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