Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu and Minister-Designate for Foreign Affairs, has strongly criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for what he described as an attempt to tarnish his reputation.
He accused the party of resorting to desperate smear campaigns by holding press conferences and spreading “childish” falsehoods about him, after failing to tarnish his reputation during his recent vetting.
According to Ablakwa, these tactics are part of a deliberate strategy to undermine his credibility and distract from the real issues at hand.
He expressed his frustration with the NPP’s approach, labeling their actions as unfounded and immature.
“They had every opportunity when I appeared before them for vetting but they chose to run away.
“They had every opportunity when they were in power for 8 years to have me prosecuted but they failed because there was nothing they could find”.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Ablakwa’s outburst came after Minority Leader Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, the MP for Effutu, took a jab at him and Samuel Nartey George (Sam George), the MP for Ningo-Prampram, for allegedly portraying themselves as “righteous” individuals.
Afenyo-Markin criticized his fellow lawmakers, accusing them of concealing their sources of wealth and the properties they own, which, according to him, undermines their credibility.
Specifically targeting Ablakwa, Afenyo-Markin questioned the North Tongu legislator’s statement during his vetting as Minister-Designate for Foreign Affairs, in which Ablakwa denied owning his residence at Airport Hills.
Afenyo-Markin refuted this claim, asserting that anyone residing in Airport Hills is, in fact, the owner of the property, as it is not a location where tenants typically reside.
This remark fueled Ablakwa’s response, which was filled with frustration at the accusations.
Accordingly, Ablakwa firmly stated that if the NPP insists on a second round of vetting, he is more than ready to face them once again.
He expressed confidence in his position, indicating that he is prepared to address any further scrutiny they wish to impose.
Oversight Role Defended Amid Smear Campaigns
Furthermore, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized that it is not a crime for a Member of Parliament to fulfill their constitutional duty of overseeing and safeguarding public resources and state assets.
He implied that his continuous efforts to expose corruption within the previous NPP government have led to the smear campaigns against him by the party.
Ablakwa highlighted that his commitment to transparency and accountability, which he views as essential to his role, has made him a subject of criticism and personal attacks from political adversaries.
“Those on the side of truth and justice can never be intimidated. I shall remain focused on President Mahama’s exciting reset innovations which we are on the verge of implementing at the Foreign Ministry”.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Meanwhile, the NPP has raised concerns about the North Tongu MP, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for his failure to disclose his properties, despite being nominated for a public office.
They argue that his reluctance to provide transparency on his personal assets casts a shadow over his credibility and integrity, especially considering his public stance on fighting corruption.
The NPP pointed out that his position on the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) Committee, which is tasked with investigating the recovery of state resources, further intensifies the scrutiny of his actions, as it appears inconsistent with his mission to promote accountability and transparency in government.
However, despite facing significant backlash, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa remains steadfast in his commitment to his mission of combating corruption.
He reaffirmed his dedication to the cause, stating that he will persist in his efforts “for God and Country.”
Ablakwa emphasized that his focus on tackling corruption and holding public officials accountable will not be deterred by any criticisms or opposition, as he believes that this is a fundamental duty in serving both his country and the people.
His resolve underscores his determination to remain unwavering in his pursuit of transparency and justice in government. “Ghana First”.
READ ALSO: Trump Agrees To Pause Tariffs On Mexico
