The Regional Chairmen of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have declared solidarity with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, describing recent allegations against him as false, hate-driven and politically motivated.
In a statement issued last Wednesday on behalf of the Regional Chairmen Caucus by its Secretary and Central Regional Chairman, Richard Asiedu, and signed by all 16 chairmen, the Caucus said it stood firmly with Mr Ablakwa, who is also the Member of Parliament for North Tongu.
The chairmen commended him for his patriotism, innovation, diligence, transparency and commitment to accountability, both in opposition and in government.
Personal attacks, Recognition
The chairmen said the attacks on Mr Ablakwa and other NDC members were driven by hatred for their accountability work in opposition, which they credited for winning the party its mandate to govern and deliver the Reset Agenda.
Highlighting his record at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Caucus said Ghana’s image had been elevated in the comity of nations under Mr Ablakwa’s leadership.
It cited about 30 visa waiver agreements signed in a short period, describing it as an unprecedented scorecard since independence.
The Caucus hailed Ghana’s UN effort to have transatlantic enslavement recognised as the gravest crime against humanity as a major diplomatic win for reparatory justice.
At home, the statement said Ghanaians were now paying less for passports, receiving them more quickly and benefiting from courier delivery.
It added that the minister had been a strong advocate for the welfare and safety of Ghanaians abroad, and that diasporans now felt a sense of pride and protection from their government.
The Caucus singled out his leadership during the latest xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where he led the evacuation of Ghanaians, brought them home and supported their reintegration.
The chairmen described the latest allegations from the Minority and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a deliberate attempt to undermine Mr Ablakwa’s credibility, tarnish his good name and distract the Government from its vision.
They said Ghanaians would not forget what they described as humongous corruption perpetrated by leaders of the previous NPP government, and called on the Attorney-General to expedite action on those pending matters.
