By Hannah Dadzie
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced the cancellation of two transactions initiated by the previous Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration to sell Ghanaian diplomatic properties in Nigeria and Zambia. Addressing Parliament yesterday, the Minister emphasized that the decision had the full backing of President John Dramani Mahama.
Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s diplomatic assets, stating unequivocally that no property belonging to the country’s missions would be sold under the current administration.
“We mean it when we say no diplomatic property belonging to the people of Ghana would be sold under our watch.” Mr Ablakwa declared.
The Foreign Affairs Minister informed the House that efforts are being made to retrieve an illegal part payment made in one of the transactions. He assured the nation that those responsible, who are currently on the run, will be found and sanctioned accordingly.
Reiterating the government’s stance, Mr Ablakwa served notice that all of Ghana’s diplomatic properties, both within the country and across its 71 missions abroad, are off-limits for sale.
“Notice is hereby served that none of our diplomatic properties, either in Ghana or any of our 71 diplomatic missions abroad, are available for sale — hands off!” The Foreign Affairs Minister indicated.
He emphasized that the principles of Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), alongside a strict abhorrence for state capture, would continue to guide the government’s decisions in managing Ghana’s foreign assets.
Mr Ablakwa concluded with a patriotic note, “For God and Country,” reaffirming the government’s dedication to national interest.
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