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Ablakwa Alleges Nepotism in $34.9M Ambulance Deal

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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
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Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, has alleged that Service Ghana Auto Group Limited, linked to President Akufo-Addo’s daughters Gyankroma Akufo-Addo and Stephen Okoro, was awarded a US$34.9 million contract for ambulance spare parts.

The contract was reportedly awarded four months before the company was incorporated, raising concerns of nepotism and corruption. Ablakwa has challenged critics to provide evidence to the contrary and has called for the Office of the Special Prosecutor to intervene to prevent further payments to the company.

As Discovered by Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Honourable Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

Akufo Addo’s daughter Gyankroma Akufo Addo is the owner of the company Service Ghana Auto Group limited that was dubiously paid 34.9m dollars to supply Ambulance spare parts. The President’s daughter, Gyankroma Akufo-Addo and Stephen Okoro are the only two directors of SFO Initiatives Limited. (Incorporation documents duly attached).

SFO Initiatives Limited was incorporated on August 9, 2013. The principal activities of the company are building and road construction, civil engineering works, food and crops farming. On the 12th of August, 2020, Stephen Okoro partnered with Gyankroma Akufo-Addo and Edwina Akufo-Addo to incorporate Goodbox Limited. (Incorporation documents duly attached).

This time Stephen Okoro took up a company secretary role in Goodbox Limited, registered by the President’s daughters to run a gym. President Akufo-Addo’s appointee, Keli Gadzekpo, who was Board Chair of ECG was made a shareholder of Goodbox Limited. A few days after, specifically on August 20, 2020, the inseparable three musketeers incorporated Good Grow Limited. (Incorporation documents duly attached). Gyankroma Akufo-Addo and Edwina Akufo-Addo are the two directors whilst their ever loyal confidant, Stephen Okoro took up the position as company secretary.

Interestingly, Good Grow Limited has been established by the presidential daughters and their beloved business associate to grow and farm cannabis. They seem determined to take full financial advantage of Ghana’s new legal cannabis regime which their father spearheaded. From the foregoing, It is now obvious that Ken Ofori-Atta’s midnight approval of the US$34.9million ambulance spare parts deal and subsequent US$10million payment was motivated by familial interest.

Ken Ofori-Atta’s primary focus was about making his nieces and their special business partner happy. Insider dealing at its frightening best. The presidential family could not take chances, just in case a new Finance Minister takes over after the reshuffle and decides to sabotage a matter in which the family has a huge interest. The conundrum about why Stephen Okoro’s Service Ghana Auto Group Limited enjoyed such remarkable preferential treatment and a unique dispensation which allowed procurement laws and other laws to be disregarded with impunity now makes sense.

We can all now understand why not even the explosive adverse findings contained in the 2022 Auditor-General’s report could stop Service Ghana Auto Group Limited from securing another uncompetitive US$34.9million spare parts cash-out from the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government. Meanwhile, Stephen Okoro, a beloved business partner of the Akufo-Addo daughters, appears to be enjoying a golden era of business as he has incorporated 6 other companies between 2017 and 2020. In opposition, President Akufo-Addo loudly promised Ghanaians that he will not run a family and friends government. Sadly, he never intended to keep that pledge. Nepotism, cronyism and corporatocracy are all considered grave forms of corruption.

As Pope Francis reminds us: “Corruption is paid by the poor.” Leaders ought not forget this fact. I can confirm, however, that I made all these oversight findings and irrefutable documents, particularly about the role of the President’s daughters and their business partner available to the Office of the Special Prosecutor in my petition of 22nd July, 2024. It is my hope that the OSP will be allowed the free hand to conduct his investigations. In the interim, let us do everything in our power to prevent the payment of the outstanding US$24.9million.

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Politics

NPP’s Manifesto Launch in Takoradi

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The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is set to launch its 2024 manifesto in Takoradi, a strategic choice reflecting the party’s focus on engaging with the Western Region, known for its swing voter base. Here’s what’s happening around this event:

The launch is scheduled for Sunday, August 18, 2024, at the Ghana Secondary Technical School (GSTS) Assembly Hall. This location choice underscores the party’s intent to connect with a broader demographic, including the youth, given the educational backdrop of the venue.

The region has been buzzing with activity. Major streets, billboards, and public spaces have been adorned with NPP colors and promotional material, signaling a significant event. The party has mobilized over 3,000 party faithful, floating voters, and sympathizers, indicating a large-scale turnout expected for the launch.

From posts on X, there’s palpable excitement. Terms like “It Is Possible,” “Bold Solutions,” and support for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer, are trending. A health walk and mini-rally were organized as pre-launch activities, which saw a significant turnout, suggesting strong grassroots support or at least curiosity about what the NPP has to offer.

Choosing Takoradi for such a critical event might be seen as a tactical move by the NPP. The Western Region’s status as a swing region could be pivotal in the elections. The choice could be interpreted as an attempt to solidify support or win over undecided voters with promises of development and attention to regional issues.

There’s been mention of comprehensive security arrangements and logistics being in place, ensuring the event runs smoothly. This preparation reflects not just the importance of the event but also the party’s commitment to safety amidst political gatherings.

Residents and observers are looking forward to hearing “prudent policies” that address economic and social challenges, indicating a public desire for practical, impactful solutions rather than just campaign rhetoric.

The NPP’s approach here seems to blend traditional political campaigning with community engagement, aiming to not just launch a manifesto but to also galvanize support in a region where every vote counts. This event could set the tone for the NPP’s campaign, showcasing their vision for Ghana’s future under their leadership.

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Mahama and Bawumia Campaign Events in Ghana

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In recent updates from Ghana, both the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been actively engaged in their respective campaign events leading up to the 2024 elections.

Former President John Mahama, the NDC’s presidential candidate, has been focusing on addressing the concerns of various groups in Ghana. Recently, he and his running mate, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku Agyemang, visited the Central Regional House of Chiefs, indicating a strategic move to engage with traditional leaders and secure their support.

This visit is part of Mahama’s broader campaign strategy, which includes the promise of a 24-hour economy, aiming to boost economic growth and job creation.

On the other side, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the NPP’s presidential candidate and current Vice President, has been actively campaigning in the Eastern region.

He participated in the Ofie Walk, a community event, alongside the Parliamentary Candidate for Akuapem North Constituency, Sammi Awuku, and other party members. This engagement is part of his broader campaign to connect with local communities and understand their needs.

Both candidates are employing a mix of traditional and modern campaigning strategies, including visits to regional and local leaders, community events, and social media engagement.

They are highlighting their plans for economic development, job creation, and addressing the needs of various groups within Ghana, aiming to secure votes in the upcoming elections.

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John Mahama Campaign Launch in Ghana

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The National Democratic Congress (NDC) launched its 2024 campaign in Tamale with former President John Mahama as the presidential candidate, emphasizing economic restoration and accountability.

Supporters highlighted Mahama’s experience and competence, contrasting it with the current government’s performance.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) also launched its campaign, with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the presidential candidate, focusing on bold solutions for Ghana’s future.

The campaigns have sparked discussions on the candidates’ capabilities and the country’s future direction.

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