Ablakwa’s Embassy shutdown sends strong anti-corruption message – Elikem Kotoko

Elikem Kotoko, the National Deputy Organiser of the NDC, praised Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. He commended Ablakwa for closing Ghana’s Embassy in Washington, D.C. This action comes amid a corruption scandal. Kotoko called it a bold message against misconduct in foreign missions.

On Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily, Kotoko spoke on May 27. He said the minister's decision shows the government's commitment to integrity and accountability. “It is justified to commend Honourable Ablakwa,” he stated. He believes it was important to act quickly before the situation worsened.

Kotoko acknowledged that opinions may vary on how to handle such issues. However, he emphasized that there should be one clear approach now. Even if Ablakwa had chosen a different route, like suspending someone, it would still draw public attention.

He noted that taking decisive action sends a stronger message about corruption. “If you take such action because of one individual,” he explained, “you communicate that we do not tolerate corruption in our foreign missions.”

On May 26, Minister Ablakwa announced the temporary closure of the embassy. This decision followed a special audit revealing a fraudulent scheme involving unauthorized fees and abuse of office.

The audit identified Fred Kwarteng as the main figure in this scandal. Kwarteng is an IT staff member hired in August 2017. He allegedly created an unauthorized link on the embassy’s website.

This link redirected applicants to his private company, Ghana Travel Consultants (GTC). There, applicants were charged unapproved processing fees between $29.75 and $60.

Ablakwa stated that closing the embassy would help finalize ongoing system changes. It aims to restructure operations at the mission fully. He described this decision as regrettable but necessary for restoring public confidence and protecting Ghana’s image abroad.