The Member of Parliament for Akyem Oda, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, has called for the resignation of the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, following controversial remarks captured in a viral video.
The call comes in the wake of comments made by the Minister who also serves as MP for Shai-Osudoku during a demolition exercise at the Sakumono Ramsar Site on May 5, 2026.
The exercise was part of efforts to clamp down on illegal developments within protected areas.
While responding to questions about alleged misconduct by technocrats involved in issuing development permits without due process, the Minister suggested that officials found culpable could be transferred to the North as a form of punishment.
The statement quickly drew widespread backlash, with critics describing it as disrespectful and reinforcing harmful stereotypes about northern parts of the country.
Many argued that such comments undermine national cohesion and unfairly portray postings to certain regions as punitive.
Amid the criticism, Minister Ocloo issued a statement on May 6, 2026, apologizing for the remarks.
She described them as a “genuine slip in communication” and reaffirmed her respect for all regions of Ghana, particularly the northern regions.
She further clarified that staff transfers within the public service are guided by established procedures and not used as arbitrary punishment.
The Minister urged the public to accept her apology, insisting that her comments had been misunderstood.
However, her explanation has not satisfied the Akyem Oda legislator.
The former deputy health minister has strongly condemned the remarks, describing them as irresponsible and unbefitting of a public official.
“No part of this country should be described or treated as a punishment ground,” he said, stressing the need for leaders to uphold respect and unity in their public utterances.
He also referenced a past incident involving William Agyapong Quaitoo, who resigned from his position as a Deputy Minister of Agriculture over comments widely criticized as ethnocentric.
Drawing comparisons, the Oda MP argued that Minister Ocloo’s comments form part of a pattern of controversial statements, citing previous issues including remarks related to the Ablekuma North by-election and the reported change of “Akwaaba” to “Obaake.” “She must do the needful, resign,” Acquah insisted.
The development has sparked renewed debate about political accountability, public communication, and the sensitivity required when addressing issues of national identity and regional balance.
By 1960news.com
