We can’t claim to know more than SSNIT board; Bryan Acheampong’s bid was lawful, the highest — Collins Owusu Amankwah 

The proposed sale of SSNIT’s majority stake in four hotels has ignited a debate in Ghana, culminating in the "Hands Off Our Hotels" protest.

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the North Tongu MP, revealed plans by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to sell its 60% stake in these hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited, a company owned by Dr. Bryan Acheampong, who is also the MP for Abetifi and the Minister of Agriculture.

Ablakwa petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate and halt the sale of the hotels which include Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and the Trust Lodge Hotel.

In reaction, the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) explained, “Based on the criteria set out in the RFP, Rock City Hotel submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal amongst those received. Consequently, it is in negotiation with SSNIT to buy a 60% stake in each of the four (4) hotels."

During a panel discussion on UTV's 'Adekye Nsroma' programme, Collins Owusu Amankwah, former MP for Manhyia North, dismisses the allegation of abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, or cronyism in the transaction.

He mentioned that Bryan submitted the highest bid, which was slightly over $29 million.

"Even if it was a high purchase, it is lawful in the country...the offer given by Rock City was higher than the rest. With Labadi Beach, Rock City offered twenty-nine million, four hundred thousand dollars; that was the highest bid. The second person offered $18 million," he stated.

Owusu Amankwah urged critics to refrain from criticizing SSNIT, asserting that the board members acted within their mandate and expertise.

"We can't claim to know more than the members of the SSNIT board...are we saying we are wiser than them...institutions have been mandated to play a specific role, and we have institutional representatives appointed to lead those institutions," he said.