AccraMail – Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister-designate for Foreign Affairs, has declared his readiness to face Parliament’s Appointments Committee for a second vetting if necessary. This comes amid what he describes as “desperate smear campaigns and baseless fabrications” by his critics.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, the North Tongu MP addressed his detractors, stating that they had ample opportunities to scrutinize him during his initial vetting and throughout their time in power but failed to take any action.
“They had every chance to question me during my vetting, but they chose to avoid it. They were in power for eight years and could have pursued legal action against me if they had any evidence, but they found nothing,” Ablakwa wrote.
His comments come at a time of heightened tensions in the ongoing vetting process, with accusations and counter-accusations dominating public discussions. The situation has been further complicated by the recent chaos during the vetting of ministerial nominees, which led to a clash between the Minority and Majority in Parliament over procedural disagreements and the destruction of equipment.
A committee established by Speaker Alban Bagbin to investigate the disruptions has scheduled public hearings to begin on Wednesday, February 5. The committee aims to examine the events of January 30, when the vetting process was marred by disagreements over timing and the ensuing chaos.
Despite the controversy, Ablakwa, who has already undergone vetting, has reiterated his willingness to participate in a second round if required. He emphasized that his actions as a Member of Parliament have always been guided by his constitutional duty to safeguard public resources and state assets.
“If they demand a second vetting, I am prepared. It is not a crime for an MP to diligently and patriotically protect public resources and state assets in line with our constitutional oversight mandate,” he stated.
Ablakwa also criticized his opponents for resorting to what he called “childish fabrications” and assured Ghanaians that those committed to truth and justice would not be intimidated. He reaffirmed his dedication to advancing President John Mahama’s policy initiatives and the work of the Foreign Ministry.
“I remain focused on President Mahama’s transformative reset innovations, which we are poised to implement at the Foreign Ministry. For God and Country. Ghana First,” he concluded.
As the vetting process continues to unfold, Ablakwa’s unwavering stance and commitment to transparency have positioned him as a key figure in the ongoing political discourse. Ghanaians await further developments as the committee’s public hearings begin this week.
