The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate the sale of six hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Bryan Acheampong.
Ablakwa disclosed that documents in his possession indicate SSNIT is poised to sell a majority 60% stake in six of its hotels to the Minister for Food and Agriculture. He has also requested CHRAJ to halt the sale to the Abetifi MP.
In his petition, Ablakwa argues that the sale of SSNIT’s shares in the hotels lacks due process and breaches procurement procedures.
“In my petition, I am inviting CHRAJ to investigate grave matters bothering on conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft,” he stated.
Ablakwa further claimed that the MP for Abetifi, who owns the well-known Rock City Hotel Limited, has breached the Constitution by not applying for or receiving permission from the Speaker of Parliament to hold a profitable office.
“I have also drawn attention to blatant violations of Article 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution as diligent checks from Parliament’s Committee on Office of Profit reveal that Hon. Bryan Acheampong has not applied and does not have the permission of the Speaker of Parliament to hold an office of profit,” part of the petition reads.
Ablakwa also expressed serious concerns about potential job losses if the sale negotiations are concluded.
“I am additionally worried about potential job losses if this sale to Bryan Acheampong is finalised,” he said.
The hotels in question include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.
