Mahama boycott in Scotland exaggerated – Jon Benjamin

The British High Commissioner to Ghana Jon Benjamin has said media reports regarding the boycott staged against President John Mahama in the Scottish Parliament Thursday are exaggerated.

According to him, majority of the Scottish MPs sat through the address which was delivered by the Ghanaian leader.

Minority MPs in the British colony stormed out of their parliament upon arrival of the Ghanaian leader over claims that Ghana tolerates abuses on homosexuals. They argued the presence of Mr. Mahama was an affront to the gay community in their country since they respect and recognise their rights.

The action has been heavily criticised by a respected Ghanaian lawyer Ace Ankomah. Mr. Ankomah in his remarks on the matter described the action by the MPs as cheap, crass and low.

But speaking to Nii Arday Clegg on the Morning Starr Friday, the High commissioner said the episode has been overhyped by the media.

“The way the issue has been reported is a bit exaggerated and overstated. The gay issue came up but I can't give you details, it was one of many issues that was discussed. President Mahama spoke in a large reception room which was full. From what I saw, everyone applauded President. I think we are spending much time on what was a non-issue at all,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Ghana Institute of Democratic Governance Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey who has waded into the issue has called on the foreign affairs ministry to explain the circumstances surrounding the boycott to Ghanaians.