Ghanaian Community and the National Union of Ghanaian Students (NUGS) in the Russian Federation write this to share our opinion about the alleged scandal involving officials of the Ghana Embassy in Moscow – Russia. We received with shock and disbelief the news item that appeared on ghanaweb.com and modern ghana.com on the 28th August, 2011 about His Excellency Dr. Seth Koranteng and Mr. A.B.R. Inusah alleging acts of money laundering, money/human trafficking, abuse of power (office), among others.

Most students and community members, we discussed this issue with were all disappointed and surprised to find out such a damaging article about His Excellency and Mr. Inusah. In view of this, they all branded it as a case of fabrication and mere smear campaign targeted at tarnishing their hard won reputation.

Those of us who have been here for more than three years have seen the hard work and dedication of these two individuals compared to their predecessors.

First of all, H.E. Dr. Seth Koranteng has been the father we’ve all been searching for in this country. This man has never rested on his oars ever since he assumed duty as the ambassador to see to the general well being of all Ghanaians irrespective of their status in this country. There are numerous instances he has proved to be a God fearing father of all. Also, countless number of initiatives and other things he has put in place to seek the comfort and well being of all Ghanaians here in the Russian Federation.

A cue in point is the scholarship he has been tirelessly seeking for some of the students who are self- sponsored and facing financial difficulties (irrespective of their political, ethnic or religious affiliation). Also, for the first time, in the History of the Embassy, a well attended Business Forum was organized in May this year. The Community and the students actively participated in the programme which has raise the political and economic profile of Ghana /Russia Relationship.

Secondly, Mr. Inusah as he is affectionately called “Headmaster” by both the students and the community members here, shows his commitment and dedication to his work as the 1st Secretary Consular and Education. Those who have been here for a longer time regard him as the best Consular/Education Secretary the Embassy has ever had.

His readiness and desire to help each Ghanaian, being student or none student irrespective of distance, circumstances and severity of the situation has been well recognized by various foreign missions, universities and institutions in this country.

The officer’s work involves interacting with students and the community irrespective of gender. We have no complains against the ‘’headmaster” as he is affectionately called.

We view the article as lacking credibility because no Russian newspaper has reported on this matter as alleged in the publication. Besides, the publication is full of factual errors and inaccuracies because the reporter is not known to the Ghanaians in Russia. We know some faceless and disgruntled individuals who were perpetuating bad deeds to soil the image of Ghana and were exposed and disciplined in accordance with the law. They therefore, decided to publish lies to tarnish the image of reputable people.

In view of the above, we regard this issue as pure blackmail, aimed at tarnishing the hard won reputation of these distinguished and noble gentlemen.

Issued by Ghanaian Community and NUGS Russia

Signed by

Philips Asiedu (President Ghanaian Community)

Ernest Marfo (President NUGS Russia)