The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has leveled accusations against Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa regarding the alleged overstatement of expenses for three charter flights, which were purportedly secured for GH¢27 million to facilitate the evacuation of Ghanaians in response to xenophobic incidents in South Africa.
The party is calling for the submission of comprehensive documentation on the evacuation operation, with particular emphasis on the original invoices for the flights, to enable transparent public scrutiny of the financial allocation.
At a press conference in Accra on Sunday, October 18, NPP Director of Communications Dennis Miracles Aboagye articulated this demand, emphasizing that the government must account for the stated expenditure.
“Release the original Ethiopia Airlines invoices corresponding to all three flights to enable meaningful dialogue with the airlines and permit inquiry into the circumstances and justifications for the substantial financial burden imposed on this nation during such a critical period,” he stated.
This request emerges within the context of apprehensions concerning the fiscal administration of resources designated for the evacuation initiative, with the Minority faction asserting that approximately GH¢16 million cannot be accounted for.
Conversely, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disclosed the identities and endorsements of Ghanaians who were evacuated from South Africa, in addition to documentation concerning the allocation of reintegration and transportation compensation.
Nevertheless, the NPP continues to pursue supplementary documentation regarding the charter flight expenditures, contending that the original invoices would substantiate the basis for the documented expenses and reinforce accountability in the administration of state resources.
