‘I’m truly sorry’ – Ofori-Atta apologises over economic challenges

The embattled Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, has apologised to Ghanaians over the current economic hardships.

In his opening remarks at the ad-hoc committee set up by the Speaker of Parliament to probe allegations warranting his removal from office as presented by the Minority, Mr Ofori-Atta stated that it was not the government’s intention to put Ghanaians through any form of hardship.

The Finance Minster said the current crisis has come about due to the devastating effects of Covid-19 and not as a result of the government’s recklessness.

“I am truly sorry. When we set out so purposefully in 2017, we didn’t expect Covid-19 would devastate us this badly…but we have not been resting on oars.”

He added that despite the effects of Covid-19, the government has strived to ensure that Ghanaians have regular power supply, continue to fix roads and ensure that government workers are consistently paid their salaries.

The Minority in Parliament filed a motion for a vote of censure against Ken Ofori-Atta making seven allegations against the minister including conflict of interest, financial recklessness leading to the collapse of the Ghana Cedi and gross mismanagement of the economy.

The minister in a written request, prior to the hearing, sought further and better particulars on the grounds for the motion while raising questions over the committee’s jurisdiction.