It is insensitive to take award when your city is under siege — Kofi Tonto jabs Linda Ocloo
A Political Aide to the 2028 New Patriotic Party flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Kofi Tonto, has criticised the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, over her recent recognition at the 6th Ghana Ministers of State Honours.
The minister was named Best Regional Minister at the awards ceremony held amid ongoing public debate over flooding challenges in parts of the region, particularly Accra.
His comments come in the wake of concerns raised by sections of the public who argue that the timing of such awards is inappropriate given the environmental and infrastructural challenges facing the capital.
Speaking on Accra-based TV3’s New Day on Monday, June 8, Tonto said the minister failed to demonstrate sensitivity to the situation in the city, which has been affected by recurrent flooding.
“At the time your city is under siege, you don’t go and take an award. That is the height of insensitivity. Your city is under siege, and ministers must read the room,” he said.
He argued that public officials must prioritise crisis response over ceremonial recognition, especially when citizens are experiencing hardship.
“The point is, in the midst of crisis, you don’t take an award. In the midst of crisis, you focus on your core responsibility,” he added.
Meanwhile, responding to the controversy on Asaase Radio, the Minister said she was not surprised by the award and insisted it reflected her performance in office.
“So I wasn’t surprised by the award I received because sometimes I keep telling people that when others recognise the little effort you put in and give you that recognition, it empowers you to do more,” she said.
She added that her work in the Greater Accra Region justified the recognition she received.
“I know I’ve done a lot for the good people of Greater Accra. I’ve done a lot that deserves that recognition, and so to God be the glory,” she stated.