Setting the Record Straight: The Oslo Chancery Purchase Controversy
In a recent statement, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, claimed to have “exposed and scuttled the inflated US$12.2 Million Oslo Chancery purchase.” However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has labeled this statement as “misleading” and “false.”
The Ministry has provided a detailed account of the events surrounding the Oslo Chancery purchase, which contradicts Ablakwa’s claims. In 2018, the Government of Ghana decided to open a Resident Diplomatic Mission in Norway, and a team from the Ministry was tasked with identifying suitable properties for the chancery building and ambassador’s residence.
The team followed due process, conducting a technical inspection and negotiating the final purchase price. The selling price of the property was 100 million Norwegian Kroner (approximately US$12 million in 2018), which was publicly advertised and confirmed in court hearings.
Despite this, Ablakwa’s statement implied corrupt dealings and a binding contract. However, the Ministry clarified that no acceptance of the offer was made, as the required approvals had not been given. The District Court of Oslo, the Court of Appeal, and the Supreme Court of Norway all ruled in favor of Ghana, dismissing the seller’s claims and bringing closure to the matter.
The Ministry’s response aimed to set the record straight, emphasizing that proper procedures were followed, and there was no corrupt dealing or binding contract. The controversy served as a reminder of the importance of accurate information and the need for clarity in public discourse.
In conclusion, the Oslo Chancery purchase controversy was a storm that has passed, leaving behind a valuable lesson for all. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has emerged victorious, their integrity intact. The truth has prevailed, and the importance of facts and transparency in governance has been reaffirmed.
Below is the full rejoinder:
