The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Ocloo, has expressed her apologies following public criticism regarding her comments that implied postings to the northern regions of Ghana might be viewed as a form of punishment.
In a statement released by the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC), the minister clarified that her remarks, which were recorded in a widely shared video, represented a “genuine slip in communication” and do not accurately reflect her true opinions or the policies related to postings within Ghana’s public service.
“I have been made aware of a widely circulated video in which I made comments suggesting that postings to the northern part of our cherished country could be interpreted as a form of punishment,” she remarked.
“I want to clarify, without any reservations, that the statements made in the video were a genuine slip in communication and do not represent my well-considered views.”
The minister noted that her comments were made in response to a media inquiry concerning allegations that certain technocrats involved in issuing development permits without following proper procedures are frequently reassigned to nearby districts, thereby perpetuating such practices.
She elaborated that during her response, she had mentioned cases where some public officials were assigned to locations far from their usual residences, but she recognized that her wording had led to an unintended interpretation.
“Unfortunately, my choice of words led to the unintended impression that such postings were punitive,” she acknowledged.
Mrs. Ocloo extended what she termed an unreserved apology to the people of Ghana, particularly to those from the northern regions.
“I genuinely recognize the concerns that this situation has raised and extend my unreserved apology to all Ghanaians, especially my brothers and sisters in the northern regions, for any misunderstanding, offense, or discomfort that may have arisen,” she concluded.
The minister reiterated her dedication to fairness, professionalism, and due process within public administration.
She guaranteed the public that every administrative decision, encompassing staff appointments and transfers, would be executed strictly in line with the established rules and regulations.
Mrs. Ocloo also encouraged the public to regard the issue as clarified, emphasizing her commitment to serving the residents of the Greater Accra Region with integrity, fairness, and accountability.
