Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has clarified the circumstances surrounding the two vehicles donated to President John Mahama.
In an interview on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen show, Mr. Ofosu explained that the cars were gifts from two companies—one a Chinese company and the other a Ghanaian company operating in Ghana—aimed at promoting local industries.
He stated that the vehicles were electric cars, aligning with the government’s push for a green energy transition.
“These cars are not just gifts; they are part of an initiative to promote local industries. When prominent people like President Mahama use these products, it helps give them exposure and mileage,” he said.
Mr. Ofosu further explained that businesses often approach prominent figures like President Mahama to help promote their products.
He noted that while there is no law prohibiting the acceptance of gifts, there are legal requirements if the value of such gifts exceeds GH₵20,000.
“There is no law that prohibits the acceptance of gifts, but if the value goes beyond GH₵20,000, you must make it public and hand it over to the state. This is exactly what President Mahama did,” Kwakye Ofosu clarified.
He also addressed concerns over potential bias or influence, stating, “People should not think that because a gift has been received, it gives an unfair advantage or will influence decisions. This is not the case.”
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained that the cars will be used to help promote green energy and local industries.
“If President Mahama drives these electric cars, it will encourage others to follow suit and make the transition to green energy,” he said.
Additionally, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu pointed out that President Mahama had not yet used the cars, but the decision to make the gift public was in line with transparency and legal requirements.
“This gesture is a reminder for public officers to comply with the rules and regulations governing gifts,” he said.
His remarks come after President Mahama publicly declared receiving the two vehicles as gifts, which he later handed over to the state.
This move followed the launch of a new Code of Conduct for appointees, highlighting the importance of transparency in public office.
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