North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is spearheading a protest today, Tuesday, June 18, to oppose the sale of four Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, owned by Ghana's Minister of Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
Ablakwa announced that the demonstration aims to urge President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to stop the sale. Speaking at a news conference on Monday, June 17, he confirmed that all preparations for the protest are finalized.
Emphasizing his desire for a peaceful protest, Ablakwa assured that any attempts to incite chaos would be handled by the Ghana Police Service. He also mentioned that officials from the presidency are expected to meet with the demonstrators to receive their petition for the president.
During the press conference, the former Deputy Education Minister stressed the urgency and importance of the protest in preventing the sale of the hotels. "We have agreed with the police that representatives of President Akufo-Addo will walk from the Jubilee House and meet us at the Christ the King Catholic Church to receive our petition," he stated. "We are peaceful and law-abiding protestors, and we assure the Ghanaian people that this agreement with the Ghana Police Service will be adhered to."
Ablakwa has already petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the transaction. However, despite widespread opposition, he feels compelled to take this additional step as he has information suggesting that the deal is still moving forward.
Citing CHRAJ's thorough investigation history, Ablakwa expressed concern that the transaction could be finalized before the Commission concludes its inquiry. Therefore, he believes it is crucial to apply extra pressure on SSNIT to halt the sale.
Today's protest underscores the significant public opposition to the sale and highlights the broader concerns about transparency and accountability in government transactions. As Ablakwa leads the charge, all eyes are on the outcome of this crucial demonstration.