National Democratic Congress (NDC) communicator, Hajia Alimatu Issahak, has defended the government’s decision to reject a GH¢20 million donation from MTN Ghana to support the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa.
According to her, the government’s decision was influenced by considerations of national pride and the circumstances surrounding the attacks on foreigners in South Africa.
She argued that MTN, being a South African company, should have first directed its concerns towards addressing the attacks rather than offering financial assistance to Ghana.
“MTN is from South Africa and if they had any advice, they should have given it to their nation to stop the attacks on foreigners instead of just bringing us money.
“We will not just accept any money. National pride and dignity are very important,” she stated.
Hajia Alimatu speaking on Adom FM Dwaso Nsem said the government could not be expected to accept financial assistance simply because the country was facing a difficult situation.
Using a local saying to explain her position, she said accepting money should not come at the expense of Ghana’s dignity.
“There is a saying that the fact that you are hungry doesn’t mean you just drink from any cup,” she said.
Her comments come amid growing debate over the government’s handling of the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa, including questions from the Minority in Parliament about the expenditure involved and the decision to reject the MTN donation.
The government has said the evacuation was undertaken to ensure the safety of Ghanaians affected by the attacks.
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