North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa says he has today, Friday, 17 May 2024, successfully petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and stop the sale of SSNIT's hotels to the Minister of Agric, Bryan Acheampong. 

According to Mr Ablakwa, intercepted documents in his possession confirm that SSNIT is far advanced in selling a controlling 60% stake in six of its hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited owned by Mr. Bryan Acheampong, the MP for Abetifi and Minister for Food and Agriculture. 

Hon. Acheampong is a director and the sole beneficial owner of Rock City Hotel Limited.

The six SSNIT hotels allegedly being sold are:

• Labadi Beach Hotel

• La Palm Royal Beach Resort

• Elmina Beach Resort

• Ridge Royal Hotel

• Busua Beach Resort

• Trust Lodge Hotel

In his petition, Mr Ablakwa said he is inviting CHRAJ to investigate grave matters bothering on conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft. 

He also drew attention to blatant violations of Article 78(3) and 98(2) of the 1992 Constitution as he claims diligent checks from Parliament's Committee on Office of Profit reveal that Bryan Acheampong has not applied and does not have the permission of the Speaker of Parliament to hold an office of profit.

The lawmaker recalled that since 2008, when he and Dr. Omane Boamah dragged the late Jake Obetsebi Lamptey to court over attempts to buy his official bungalow, he has always maintained that it is wrong, unethical and reprehensible for public officials, particularly, Ministers of State to participate in the purchase of state assets. “It is a matter of principle.” 

Also, he noted that a number of these SSNIT hotels are very profitable and one wonders the rationale for the sale.

Additionally, he expressed worry about potential job losses if this sale to Bryan Acheampong is finalised.