The Member of Parliament for North Tongu in the Volta Region, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is embroiled in a controversy surrounding allegations of conflict of interest and violation of the 1992 Constitution.
The controversy is about Mr. Ablakwa’s failure to disclose his involvement in a lucrative venture, Volta Klenam Farms and Industries LTD, while still an MP and failure to notify the Speaker about his being in private business.
A petition brought on by Ernest Kofi Owusu-Bempah Bonsu of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has sparked an investigation by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).
Mr. Ablakwa, known for his vocal stance against corruption, now faces scrutiny over his alleged oversight in seeking parliamentary approval for his business interests. The issue has raised pertinent questions about his integrity and commitment to ethical standards, particularly given his public advocacy against corruption.
The investigation by CHRAJ is to ascertain whether or not Mr. Ablakwa contravened Article 98(2) of the Constitution, which expressly prohibits Members of Parliament from engaging in offices of profit without proper authorization.
This case serves as a poignant reminder of the crucial tenets of transparency and accountability that should govern public office. The outcome of the investigation holds significant implications, not only for Mr. Ablakwa’s standing but also for the broader landscape of Ghanaian politics and the perception of public officials’ integrity.
As the investigation unfolds, citizens of Ghana will undoubtedly be keenly observing to ensure that justice prevails and accountability is upheld. The unfolding events underscore the repercussions of disregarding the fundamental principles of transparency and accountability in the realm of public service.
Find below his full petition:
7th June 2024
The Commissioner
Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ)
High Street
Accra
Dear Sir,
PETITION
HON. SAMUEL OKUDZETO ABLAKWA’S DECEPTION AND NON-COMPLIANCE WITH CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PUBLIC OFFICERS
At a time when our country is striving for economic growth, good governance, and transparency, it is highly unconscionable that a high-ranking public official, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa (MP for North Tongu Constituency), blatantly flouts the very laws and principles that he has sworn to uphold. His actions are a disgrace to the office he occupies and an affront to the people of Ghana who expect integrity and accountability from their leaders.
As a concerned citizen, I am compelled to bring to light the grievous abuses of office, blatant breaches of constitutional provisions, and the deliberate deception by Hon. Ablakwa. My investigations have uncovered a shocking pattern of misconduct, non-compliance with our nation’s laws, and deceptive practices aimed at evading scrutiny and accountability.
Facts Uncovered:
- Conflict of Interest and Breach of Constitutional Provisions:
Hon. Ablakwa is the director, sole shareholder, and beneficial owner of Volta Klenam Farms and Industries LTD, incorporated on 2nd September 2021. As a Member of Parliament, he is mandated to comply with Article 98(2) of the Constitution of Ghana, which forbids MPs from holding any other office of profit or emolument, whether public or private, directly or indirectly, without the permission of the Speaker of Parliament upon recommendation of a committee of parliament.
Despite this clear mandate, Hon. Ablakwa has neglected, failed, and refused to comply with this provision. As of 4th June 2024, it is evident that Hon. Ablakwa has not applied to the committee nor received a certificate from the Speaker as required by the constitution.
- Deceptive Practices and Misconduct:
It is evident that Hon. Ablakwa has been deceptive about his compliance with the law. His failure to disclose his business interests and seek the necessary permissions highlights a deliberate attempt to evade scrutiny and accountability. This is a grave abuse of his position and an insult to the integrity of our legislative processes.
Through this petition, I demand that CHRAJ makes a determination that Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa:
- Occupies a position of profit or emolument in violation of Article 98(2) of the Constitution of Ghana;
2. Has engaged in deceptive practices by failing to disclose his business interests and seek the necessary permissions.
Humbly Submitted,
Ernest Kofi Owusu-Bempah Bonsu
