Linda Ocloo apologises for 'north as punishment' comment after backlash

The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, has apologised for remarks suggesting that postings to northern Ghana could be seen as a form of punishment.

Her comment, captured in a widely circulated video, was made during a demolition exercise at the Sakumono Ramsar Site on May 5, 2026.

'We have transferred people to the north as a form of punishment' - Minister

She had warned staff of the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) involved in issuing building permits that sanctions, including transfers, could be applied if they engage in illegal acts.

She stated that officials who knowingly approve permits for illegal structures would face the law.

“If you issue a permit to an illegal structure, knowing very well that the place is illegal, you will also face the law…some of them have been transferred to the north, just to serve as a kind of punishment for them, so that when they realise that what they did was wrong, they are brought back to Accra or other places,” she said.

Her comment, however, triggered criticism, with many describing it as inappropriate.

In a statement issued on May 5, 2026, after the backlash, the minister said her remarks were a slip and did not reflect her views or government policy on postings within the public service.

She explained that she was responding to concerns about technocrats who allegedly issue development permits without following due process and are sometimes reassigned to nearby districts, allowing the practice to continue.

“I wish to state, without reservation, that the comments captured in the video were a genuine slip in communication and do not reflect my considered views, nor do they represent the established policies and procedures governing staff postings within the Public Service,” she said.

Ocloo clarified that her reference was to instances where some officials had been posted to areas far from their usual places of residence, but her choice of words created the wrong impression.

“I sincerely acknowledge the concerns that this has generated and offer my unreserved apology to all Ghanaians, especially my brothers and sisters in the Northern Regions, for any misunderstanding, offence, or discomfort caused,” she added.

The minister also assured the public of her commitment to fairness and due process in administrative decisions.

“I wish to assure the public that I hold the highest regard for due process, equity, and professionalism,” she stated.

Meanwhile, the demolition exercise at the Sakumono Ramsar Site is ongoing as authorities move to clear illegal structures to protect the area and reduce flooding risks.

Linda Ocloo halts construction project beneath 'Spintex' overpass

The operation, led by the Forestry Commission in collaboration with the Greater Accra Regional Security Council (REGSEC) and the Tema West Municipal Assembly, is expected to continue until Thursday, with all unauthorised developments within the core zone targeted for removal.

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