The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has issued an unreserved apology following public backlash over comments suggesting that public servants are posted to Northern Ghana as a form of punishment for wrong doings.
The Minister in a release dated on May 5, 2026, addressed a “widely circulated video” in which she made the controversial remarks.
“If you issue a permit to an illegal structure, knowing very well that the place is illegal, you will also face the law… some of them have been transferred to the north, just to serve as a kind of punishment for them,” she said.
The statement has since attracted widespread condemnation and backlash from Ghanaians particularly people of Northern decent.
The Minister has however characterized the statement as a “genuine slip in communication” that does not reflect her personal views or the official policies of the Public Service.
“I sincerely acknowledge the concerns that this has generated and offer my unreserved apology to all Ghanaians, especially my brothers and sisters in the Northern Regions, for any misunderstanding, offence, or discomfort caused,” she said.
She explained that the comments were made in response to media inquiries regarding technocrats alleged to have issued development permits without due process with concerns been raised about these individuals being posted to nearby districts, which potentially allowed corrupt practices to persist.
“In response, I referenced to instances where some individuals had been posted to areas far from their usual places of residence…regrettably, my choice of words created the unintended impression that such postings were punitive,” she said.
She further reaffirmed her commitment to the principles of ‘due process, equity, and professionalism’ assuring the public that all administrative decisions, including staff transfers and postings, are conducted strictly according to established regulations without prejudice.
The release concluded with the Minister’s pledge to continue serving the Greater Accra Region with “integrity, fairness, and accountability,” while urging the public to consider the matter clarified.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
