My comment on transfer to the north was a slip — Greater Accra Regional Minister apologises

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has apologised over her recent comment suggesting that public servants who flout building regulations could be transferred to northern Ghana as punishment.

The remark was made on Tuesday, May 5, during a demolition exercise targeting illegal structures in Accra.

During an interview with the media, the Minister cautioned that officials who grant permits for developments in unauthorised areas will be posted to the North.

The comment sparked public backlash, with critics describing it as disrespectful to people in northern Ghana and reinforcing negative perceptions about postings to the area.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, May 6, the Minister clarified that the statement was unintended and does not reflect her views or government policy.

“I wish to state, without reservation, that the comments captured in the video were a genuine slip in communication and do not reflect my considered views,” she said.

She explained that her response had been in relation to concerns about some technocrats allegedly issuing permits without due process and being posted within nearby districts, allowing the practice to continue.

According to her, the reference to distant postings was misinterpreted as punitive.

“Regrettably, my choice of words created the unintended impression that such postings were punitive,” she stated.

The Minister further offered an unreserved apology to Ghanaians, particularly residents of the Northern Regions, and assured that staff postings are guided strictly by established procedures.