By Josephine Kekeli
A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team, Saaka Salia, has publicly dismissed the Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) initiative, calling it ineffective and stating he does not support the programme.
In an interview with Kafui Dey on GTV’s breakfast show on January 20, 2025, Saaka accused members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of being responsible for land-grabbing activities.
He demanded that they return all lands acquired during their time in power. He specifically mentioned the residence of former President John Mahama and claimed that over 200 NDC members have acquired land in various regions. He also alleged to have seen a list of lands acquired by the late President Atta Mills during his university days.
Saaka further criticised the NDC for misleading the public about the legality of land allocations by the Land Commission. He asserted that the real concern should be the price of the land, not its allocation. “Why is the NDC creating the impression that if the Land Commission gives land to someone, it means it’s illegal? We can only talk about the price, and even with that, the price is not illegal,” Saaka said.
He also emphasised the importance of legitimate institutions in investigating criminal matters, suggesting that the role of ORAL could be fulfilled by these established bodies.
In response, George Loh, Deputy Director of Legal Affairs for the NDC, defended the ORAL initiative. He stated that anyone opposed to ORAL is likely involved in illegal activities, stressing that only those with something to hide would fear the programme. “If you know that you have done nothing wrong, you will not be afraid of ORAL,” Loh stated.
Mr. Loh clarified that ORAL, part of the NDC’s transition programme under President Mahama, was tasked with gathering information and forwarding it to the appropriate authorities. He added that ORAL’s role was to verify leaks and ensure that any petitions were legitimate.
President Mahama announced the formation of the five-member ORAL team, chaired by Honourable Okudzeto Ablakwa, on December 18, 2023. The initiative aims to recover state resources, enforce accountability, and promote good governance in Ghana as part of Mahama’s 120-day social contract agenda.
