Former Defence Minister’s Comments On AMA Relocation Exercise Need Circumspection – NHIA DCEO
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Health Insurance Authority, Anatu Anne Seidu Bogobiri Esq., has called for circumspection from former Minister for Defence, Hon. Dominic Nitiwul, over his remarks on the recent relocation exercise by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA).
In a statement issued on Monday, Madam Bogobiri said she had watched a video in circulation in which Hon. Nitiwul addresses the AMA exercise affecting some members of the Konkomba community, and described the tone and framing as unfortunate.
“With respect, the tone and framing of the remarks are unfortunate and do not reflect the circumspection expected of a former Minister of State, particularly one who has held the sensitive portfolio of Defence,” she stated.
She noted that Accra remains a cosmopolitan home for all Ghanaians and any public commentary on an exercise that affects any ethnic group must be handled with utmost care.
According to her, remarks that appear to introduce an ethnic dimension to a city management exercise have the potential to heighten tension and be misinterpreted, which is not in the interest of national cohesion.
The NHIA DCEO cautioned that history, including the tragic experience of Rwanda between the Tutsi and Hutu, teaches how important it is for leaders to use language that unites rather than divides.
“Ghana has always prided itself on peaceful co-existence, and we must guard that jealously,” she added.
Madam Bogobiri said there were more constructive ways to advocate for the affected persons, such as appealing to the AMA for a humane and orderly relocation process, and lobbying for economic opportunities for them, including priority consideration in the 24-hour economy markets initiative and other livelihood support programmes.
She said while it is understandable that as a leader Hon. Nitiwul seeks to show solidarity with his people, such advocacy is more effective when carried out through engagement with relevant authorities and with language that promotes unity and stability in Accra.
“I urge that we all, especially former and current public office holders, carry ourselves in a manner worthy of our positions and continue to promote peace, tolerance and national unity,” she said.
The Accra Metropolitan Assembly in recent weeks has been undertaking decongestion and relocation exercises in parts of the capital as part of efforts to improve sanitation, traffic flow and city management.
