“Power Changes People” – Newton-Offei Blasts Ablakwa for Ignoring Urgent Constituent Needs
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Justice Abeeku Newton-Offei, a former Presidential Staffer under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has criticized Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu and Minister of Foreign Affairs, for refusing to engage with constituents who approached him with urgent concerns. A video circulating on social media shows several constituents trying to speak with Ablakwa, only for him to instruct them to schedule an appointment and meet him at his office before driving away. The incident has sparked a debate about how politicians interact with their constituents outside of election periods.
In response to the viral video, Justice Abeeku Newton-Offei acknowledged that approaching ministers in public could pose security risks but noted that Ablakwa’s response was less than ideal.
“Realistically, it’s not advisable to approach ministers publicly, as it could endanger their safety. However, I believe my brother Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa would have stopped to listen to these people if it were during an election campaign,” he wrote.He also advised the North Tongu MP to be more considerate, as such seemingly minor incidents could lead to disillusionment among party supporters.
“If I were Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, I would have taken a moment to listen to these people, regardless of whether they were NDC supporters. These small things often lead to greater dissatisfaction among party footsoldiers; Hon. needs to be more tactful,” he added.
The incident has ignited further discussion on whether elected political leaders remain accessible and responsive to their constituents after taking office.
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