Gyampo Criticizes NPP's Call for Ablakwa's Resignation

Professor Ransford Gyampo, CEO of the Ghana Shippers Authority, has criticized the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) communicators for their handling of calls for Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to resign. In a series of social media posts, Gyampo expressed dissatisfaction with the NPP's communication strategy, describing it as ineffective and centered on demanding resignations through press conferences. He contrasted this approach with those previously employed by Fifi Kwetey and Sammy Gyamfi.

Gyampo's criticism comes amid mounting pressure from the NPP on Ablakwa to resign over controversies surrounding the evacuation of 1,964 Ghanaians from South Africa and allegations involving the sale of Ghanaian diplomatic and service passports. The opposition party has questioned the handling of the evacuation exercise and raised concerns over the alleged sale of diplomatic and service passports, demanding accountability from the Foreign Affairs Minister.

According to Gyampo, the NPP communicators lack the skills and approach needed to build compelling allegations and communicate them effectively to the public. He accused some public servants of leaving behind networks within the public service to perpetuate corrupt practices and leak information for political advantage. Gyampo also expressed concern that Ghanaians are not bothered about the NPP's new communication strategy.

The Minority has argued that diplomatic and service passports carry a level of trust and recognition from foreign governments because of the official status of their holders. They explained that these passports are issued under the authority of the Republic and are intended for people who meet specific legal requirements. However, they expressed concern that individuals could have allegedly paid to obtain the documents by securing false official designations.

The alleged irregularities in the issuance of diplomatic and service passports have raised concerns about the credibility of Ghanaians who legitimately hold the documents for official assignments. The Minority warned that if these passports can be bought under false official designations, it would mean that the system for issuing them has been compromised, undermining confidence in official documents.

Gyampo's comments have sparked a renewed debate about the NPP's communication strategy and the controversies surrounding Ablakwa's tenure as Foreign Affairs Minister. His criticism of the NPP's approach has been seen as a swipe at the party's handling of the issue. The development is likely to add to the pressure on Ablakwa to address the concerns raised by the NPP and other stakeholders.

The controversy surrounding Ablakwa's tenure has raised questions about the effectiveness of the government's communication strategy and the need for greater transparency and accountability in the handling of public affairs. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the concerns raised by the NPP and other stakeholders.

Key points

• Professor Ransford Gyampo criticizes NPP's communication strategy
• NPP demands Ablakwa's resignation over passport allegations
• Gyampo contrasts NPP's approach with Fifi Kwetey and Sammy Gyamfi's methods