Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has outrightly denied claims that he has awarded a US$5.2 million contract for the renovation of the Ghanaian embassy in Benin. In a statement, the minister dismissed the allegations as “false” and urged the public to treat them with “utter contempt.” He emphasized that he has not authorized any embassy renovation contract anywhere in the world since taking office.
Mr. Ablakwa was unequivocal in his denial, stating that “not a single embassy renovation or construction contract has been awarded by me since I became Foreign Minister.” He countered the accusations by revealing that he has actually taken action to save taxpayer money. He specifically mentioned his decision to cancel a different contract—a US$3.5 million “single source midnight contract” to renovate the Ghanaian embassy in Abidjan, which was awarded on November 7, 2024.
The minister framed his actions as a commitment to fiscal responsibility and a refusal to “betray the trust of the Ghanaian people.” He asserted that his ministry is working “tirelessly, and with integrity,” to implement what he referred to as President Mahama’s “Reset Agenda.” This statement appears to be an effort to align his actions with a broader government policy of reform and accountability.
Mr. Ablakwa’s direct and forceful response aims to shut down the controversy surrounding the alleged contract. By highlighting his cancellation of the Abidjan project, he sought to shift the narrative from one of alleged misuse of funds to one of proactive protection of public resources. This move positions him as a guardian of the public purse rather than a contributor to questionable expenditures.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
