Sam George demands retraction and apology over Lexus gift claim

Minister Samuel Nartey George has demanded a retraction and apology from P.K. Sarpong. Sarpong, an activist for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), made allegations against Mr. George. He claimed that George received a Lexus vehicle as a gift, violating President John Dramani Mahama’s Code of Conduct.

In a Facebook post, Sarpong described the vehicle as “unregistered” and “top of the range.” He alleged it was a gift from an unnamed person. This claim suggests that George violated the President's directive against accepting gifts to avoid conflicts of interest.

Mr. George denied these claims through his lawyers at Korsah & Ackah @ Law. He called the allegations “defamatory and injurious.” In a letter dated May 20, his lawyers demanded that Sarpong remove the Facebook post.

They also requested a public retraction and an unqualified apology within seven days. If Sarpong does not comply, legal action will follow, including a defamation lawsuit.

The letter stated, “You are fully aware that your publication is devoid of truth.” It accused Sarpong of spreading misinformation to damage Mr. George's reputation.

Mr. George clarified that he purchased the vehicle himself with a loan from the National Investment Bank. He emphasized that this acquisition was lawful and transparent.

The President’s Code of Conduct requires government appointees to declare gifts valued over GH₵20,000. This rule aims to maintain integrity in public office.

As of now, P.K. Sarpong has not publicly responded to these demands.