‘I’m not discouraged’ – Ablakwa responds to criticism over South Africa evacuation

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says he remains committed to protecting the welfare and dignity of Ghanaians despite what he describes as “all the vilification” directed at him amid controversy over the cost of the evacuation exercise from South Africa.

He said criticism from the Minority and other commentators would not discourage him from carrying out his responsibilities.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, October 26, organised by some of the evacuees to tell their part of the story, Mr Ablakwa reaffirmed his commitment to serving Ghanaians, insisting that the criticism would not distract him from his duties.

"I give you one assurance: despite all the vilification, I remain fully committed to the welfare, the protection, the dignity, and the rights of all Ghanaians. I am not discouraged at all," the minister said.

He also defended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its finance officers against allegations of financial impropriety in the management of funds for the evacuation exercise.

The minister maintained that he had confidence in the work of the officials involved, insisting that no money had been stolen.

His comments follow media fact-checks and allegations by the Minority that not every evacuee received the reported GH¢5,500 in support payments.

Questions have also been raised about discrepancies in some dates of birth contained in documents provided by the ministry.

The controversy has triggered public scrutiny of the expenditure on the evacuation exercise and the accuracy of the records used to account for payments to returnees.

Mr Ablakwa's latest comments signal his determination to continue his work despite the mounting criticism, as calls for clarity over the payments and documentation remain part of the debate surrounding the exercise.