Ayariga Commends Foreign Affairs Minister For Swift Response To Washington Embassy Incident
Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, has praised the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for his prompt and decisive response following the temporary closure of Ghana’s embassy in Washington, D.C.
The closure, reportedly prompted by an alleged corrupt transaction involving a local staff member, drew sharp criticism from Deputy Minority Leader and Member of Parliament for Asokwa, Patricia Appiagyei. She filed a motion requesting the minister’s appearance before Parliament, describing the decision as “reckless” and “non-transparent,” and raising concerns about its impact on diplomatic priorities and accountability.
At a press briefing held by parliamentary leadership, Ms Appiagyei condemned what she termed an abrupt and poorly communicated move, arguing that it risked undermining Ghana’s strategic diplomatic interests.
In defense of the Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr. Ayariga described the swift action as both necessary and appropriate.
“Sometimes you have to take quick and immediate measures to redeem the image of the country,” he stated. “I highly commend the Minister for the swiftness, the steadfastness, and the commitment to fighting corruption and maintaining our reputation as a nation that does not tolerate corruption—anywhere, anytime, anyhow.”
Addressing public concerns about potential service disruptions, Mr. Ayariga reassured the public that the impact would be minimal. “The disruption is not significant — just about one or two days — and so it will not materially affect the services people are requesting,” he said.
He concluded by encouraging Ghanaians to support anti-corruption initiatives and to recognize the importance of decisive leadership in such matters.
“We should be commending the minister for taking such an action,” he added.
Credit: Emmanuel Tetteh
