Operation Recover All Loot
Former Deputy Minister for Fisheries, Francis Kingsley Ato Cudjoe, has issued a caution to Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu. Ato Cudjoe, who also served as an MP for Ekumfi, advises Ablakwa to distance himself from the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee. He believes that continuing his association with this group could jeopardize Ablakwa’s political aspirations.
The call for caution comes amidst a heated political climate. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Minority Caucus in Parliament recently urged anyone invited by the ORAL Committee to boycott these invitations. They argue that ORAL lacks the legal authority to investigate corruption, as there are established institutions designated for such tasks.
In a press briefing, John Darko, the Member of Parliament for Suame, firmly stated the NPP’s position. He expressed that their members would not participate in any proceedings related to ORAL. “There are constitutionally established bodies that investigate any so-called misdeeds for the government,” he emphasized. Darko criticized the committee for allegedly disturbing citizens and overstepping its bounds.
During an interview on Joy Prime, Ato Cudjoe reiterated his concerns. He suggested that if Ablakwa withdraws from the ORAL Committee, it would benefit his future in politics. He stated, “The election is over. You used ORAL to get the youth to come on board. But you, Okudzeto, are a politician. Don’t get yourself involved so that later you mar your reputation.”
Cudjoe added that while he respects Ablakwa and his political journey, he believes it is crucial for him to avoid associations that lack legal backing. He pointed out that ORAL was created during the election period to rally votes from the youth, but with the election concluded, its purpose has diminished.
Watch the discussion by the former minister:
