According to a report by GhanaWeb, former Lower West Akim MP Gifty Klenam, who represented the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has spoken out about her dismissal from office, expressing her confusion regarding the reasons behind it.
In an interview with Joy Prime, Klenam, a former head of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), noted that her primary aim had always been to enhance exports through effective product development.
She expressed a desire for clarity, stating that she would appreciate it if someone could inquire with President Akufo-Addo about the rationale for her removal, as she remains in the dark about the decision.
“I would be very happy if you can find out from President Akufo-Addo why he sacked me. Honestly, I don’t know up to today why he did what he did,” she said.
Klenam elaborated that exporting goods is a complex process that requires thorough development rather than a simple decision to send products abroad.
She emphasized the importance of product development in job creation, explaining that meaningful exportation involves preparing the product properly before it can be marketed internationally.
Drawing a comparison, she pointed out that even sophisticated products like laptops are the result of extensive development processes that generate employment opportunities.
Recently, Klenam switched her allegiance to the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) and reflected on her significant contributions to Ghana’s export industry.
She highlighted her initiatives to revive pineapple exports, promote cashew farming, and enhance agricultural productivity.
During her tenure at GEPA, she prioritized cashew production, distributing thousands of seedlings and implementing measures to boost yields.
Klenam also worked on increasing yam production in the Volta Region and revitalizing the smooth cayenne pineapple variety, which had nearly vanished from the market.
Despite her contributions, Klenam believes her dismissal was influenced by political factors, though she has chosen to move forward positively.
When asked about her feelings toward the NPP, she clarified that she is content and has received supportive messages from party members congratulating her after her recent announcement.
However, she did acknowledge encountering threats, indicating that such challenges are part of the political landscape, and she must exercise caution.