Aidoo questioned on alleged poor human relations

Accra, Jan. 27, GNA - Mr Joseph Boahen Aidoo, Western Regional Minister, nominated for another four-year term, was on Thursday drilled by the Appointment Committee of Parliament, to clear himself of allegations of extortion, corruption and arbitrary transfer of people.

In an answer to how he became involved in the transfer of three teachers in the Region, the nominee said the teachers were involved in the inhuman treatment of pupils under their care, while one actually called him "Aidoo a bushman".


Asked why he did not allow the Ghana Education Service to handle the matter, Mr Aidoo said he made a report to the Service.


He explained that he could not allow a teacher who was involved in smearing goat droppings on some pupils to stay in the Amenfi East Constituency, where he is the Member of Parliament.


One of the teachers in the Constituency was also found wearing earrings, and this he said was not a good example to the pupils. The nominee told the Committee that he requested the transfer of a lady who was impossible to be contained.

Asked by Minority Leader, Mr Alban Bagbin why he got personally involved in the transfer of the lady without recourse to the laid down procedures in the Civil Service? He said: "I can't work with her."


"I am free with every one. I mix well with everybody. The allegations are unfounded," Mr Aidoo said in defence of his alleged poor human relations.


According to him, it was not possible to implement government policies if people were not ready to support him in the discharge of his duties.


On his involvement in chieftaincy disputes in the Region, Mr Aidoo said on occasions when he had to intervene to protect the peace, freedom and the lives of some individuals, he did so.