Lawmaker Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a lead organizer of the upcoming “Hands Off Our Hotels” protest, is urging President Akufo-Addo to halt the controversial sale of six SSNIT-owned hotels to Rock City Group.
The demonstration, slated for June 17 in Accra, will feature members of the Trades Union Congress, lawmakers, and the general public, all united against the sale of state-owned hotels.
Ablakwa, who petitioned CHRAJ to investigate the sale, argues that selling state properties to government officials is an abuse of power. He demands an immediate stop to the sale and a declaration from the president.
The hotels in question are Labadi Beach Hotel, LaPalm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, Ridge Royal Hotel, Busua Beach Resort, and Trust Lodge Hotel.
The Trades Union Congress fully supports the demonstration, with PRO Naa Ayele Ardayfio Sekyere emphasizing the need for collective action. “This is a national call to protect our collective interests.
We cannot continue to witness the mismanagement of SSNIT assets, which will leave us with nothing but poverty in retirement.” The protest seeks to halt the sale of state assets, particularly profitable ones, and ensure their preservation for future generations.
Ablakwa stressed that the president’s response to the issue has been unsatisfactory, merely directing Organised Labour to meet with the Employment Minister, who attempted to justify the sale.
The lawmaker and the TUC are determined to push for a reversal of the sale and a halt to future transactions involving state assets.
The demonstration promises to be a significant show of force against what protesters see as an unjustified grab of national resources.
