Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso and former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr Stephen Amoah, has strongly defended former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta amidst ongoing criticism.
The OSP declared Mr Ofori-Atta a fugitive on Wednesday, February 12, on the grounds of causing financial loss to the state in several dealings, including the construction of the controversial National Cathedral and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA’s) – Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Ltd (SML).
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Dr Amoah emphatically stated that Ofori-Atta has not “run away” from the country, countering the narrative pushed by some detractors.
“I want to make it emphatically clear that Ken Ofori-Atta hasn’t run away,” Dr Amoah told the House.
“Mr Speaker, I would like to advise this august house. Our actions and omissions over the years have actually defined us, and we have allowed external stakeholders to view us through different lenses. It is time we stop doing this to each other,” he said
Dr Amoah also condemned the harsh language used by members, particularly regarding the state of the economy.
“Some of the descriptions they give him, some even went to the extent of commenting on the economy that he left behind. In fact, I cannot repeat those evil words they use in-house,” he added, alluding to the strong criticism that Ofori-Atta has faced.
In his remarks, Dr Amoah pointed to the achievements made during Ofori-Atta’s tenure, particularly in managing Ghana’s economy.
“In 2016, the economy that Ken Ofori-Atta inherited was growing at just 3.4 percent, with an inflation rate of 15.4 percent.
“Under his leadership, we have been able to implement one of the most enviable, strong policy frameworks on the African continent,” Dr Amoah argued, asserting that Ofori-Atta’s tenure was marked by significant progress despite challenges.
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