Chairman of the Council of Elders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in South Africa, Mr. Benjamin Kofi Quashie, has launched a scathing critique of the erstwhile NPP-led government, accusing former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his administration of presiding over a regime of “unprecedented dissipation” of public funds and national resources.
Speaking in an interview on Ghasa Radio, a South African-based online platform, Mr. Quashie remarked with deep concern: “If you see the way the NPP and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has dissipated public funds and resources, you cry for Mother Ghana.”
He referenced what he described as a blatant culture of profligacy among some NPP officials, singling out Ashanti Regional Chairman of the NPP, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, for his ostentatious display of wealth and controversial conduct.
“Wontumi went to a studio with gold bars, boasting to the world about power and riches. He claimed to have over 99 houses in Kumasi and estates across the country. This same person was allegedly given funds for a road project that sources say is not even 18% complete, yet he reported over 50% progress,” Mr. Quashie alleged.
He stressed that such conduct was symptomatic of a broader problem of corruption and lack of accountability under the previous administration. According to him, real national development can only be achieved if governance is anchored in transparency and accountability.
The NDC South Africa elder revealed that Wontumi’s legal woes reflect a growing culture of impunity among some NPP figures.
He warned that the era of loud, flamboyant politicians who disregard their public service obligations must come to an end.
“It doesn’t pay to be loud when you’re supposed to be serving the people. Wontumi used to boast on TV about wanting to buy Chelsea Football Club. Today, he’s quiet. When the day of accountability comes, nobody should be seen crying,” he stated.
Citing President John Mahama’s leadership philosophy, Mr. Quashie reiterated that politicians are servants of the people, not their overlords. He maintained that the previous administration has much to answer for and called on the legal system to ensure justice is served.
“This is just the beginning,” he said ominously, suggesting that other high-ranking former government officials, including the Finance Minister, may soon be called to account.
Mr. Quashie’s remarks come amid growing public scrutiny of the NPP government spending and calls from civil society for more robust anti-corruption measures.
Source: Newstitbits.com