Former Deputy Minister for the Upper West Region, Abu Kansangbata, has urged Ghanaians to celebrate the Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) for their timely involvement in the matter of six state-owned hotels being sold to Bryan Acheampong.

He emphasized that the proposal to sell these hotels, now reduced to four, has sparked significant controversy in Ghana, especially due to the involvement of a New Patriotic Party (NPP) member who is both a minister of state and a Member of Parliament.

“Such actions undermine public trust and suggest favoritism, raising the spectre of corruption…these potential conflicts should be addressed promptly to maintain the integrity of public office and state transactions.

“The TUC and Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa have been instrumental in challenging the proposed sale of these hotels. Their efforts have highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the management of state assets," Kansangbata said in a radio interview on Home Radio in Wa.

He continued,"...Ablakwa's vocal opposition underscores his commitment to safeguarding public resources and ensuring that government actions are conducted in the public's best interest. Ghanaians must rally behind this cause to ensure that the nation’s properties and assets are safeguarded, maintaining the legacy and hard work of its citizens for the benefit of future generations.”

Kansangbata mentioned that the recent proposal to sell several state-owned hotels, which has faced public outcry, is part of a troubling trend where state assets are sold under questionable circumstances.

“The president should heed the voices of the majority of Ghanaians who are calling for the protection of national properties for the benefit of future generations. This issue transcends party lines and should be viewed as a national concern that threatens to undermine the achievements of Ghana’s forefathers," the former deputy minister cautioned.

Kansangbata highlighted the importance of implementing robust anti-corruption measures to ensure transparent management of state assets.

“It is imperative to implement robust anti-corruption measures to ensure that state assets are managed transparently. This includes empowering anti-corruption agencies and civil society organizations to monitor and investigate such transactions. All government transactions involving state assets should be conducted with full transparency. Detailed records should be made accessible to the public, and regular audits should be performed to ensure accountability.

"Legal reforms are necessary to prevent conflicts of interest and protect state assets. Policies should be established to regulate the sale of state properties, ensuring that these decisions are made in the public interest. The attempt to sell state-owned hotels to a political insider is a troubling development that highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in government transactions.” he concluded.

AE