The Ga Traditional Council has publicly supported Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, in response to public backlash over comments concerning staff assignments to northern Ghana. The Council characterized the incident, which occurred around May 7, 2026, as an “unfortunate lapse in communication” rather than an intentional act of disrespect.
Council Addresses Public Concern
In a formal press release, the Ga Traditional Council acknowledged that the Minister’s remarks had “understandably generated concern and disappointment among sections of the public, particularly our brothers and sisters from the Northern Regions.” However, the Council stated its belief that the comments were not made with the intent “to demean, insult, or undermine the dignity of the people of the North.”
The controversy stemmed from statements made by Minister Ocloo, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Shai Osudoku, regarding the deployment of personnel to northern Ghana. While the precise original wording of her comments has circulated widely on social media, the Council’s intervention suggests a significant public perception that the remarks were dismissive or derogatory.
Minister’s Remarks Deemed Communication Lapse
“We believe the Minister’s remarks amounted to an unfortunate lapse in communication rather than a deliberate expression of malice or disrespect,” the statement, signed by Ga Mantse and President of the Ga Traditional Council, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, declared. The Council commended Minister Ocloo for “publicly clarifying her remarks and expressing remorse over the misunderstanding and concerns the comments may have caused.”
The traditional authority also extended its “sincere regret to all persons who may have felt offended, hurt, or marginalized by the comments.” The Ga Traditional Council appealed to the public, opinion leaders, and all stakeholders to approach the matter “with understanding, forgiveness, and a spirit of reconciliation.”
Context of Public Service and Regional Unity
The Council emphasized the pressures associated with public office, noting that “isolated slips in expression should not overshadow years of dedicated service and commitment to the development of our nation.” It underscored that Ghana’s strength “has always rested in our unity in diversity, and every region of our country remains equally valuable and indispensable to national development and national progress.”
Linda Ocloo, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was appointed Regional Minister by President John Dramani Mahama after the party’s electoral success. Known for her grassroots connection, she has sometimes faced scrutiny for her direct communication style.
Wider Implications for Regional Perception
This incident has broadened discussions on regional respect and the perception of northerners within Ghana’s professional and political spheres. Critics argue that dismissive attitudes towards assignments in the north can discourage young professionals, potentially exacerbating existing developmental disparities.
The Ga Traditional Council, a highly respected traditional institution in Ghana, urged all leaders and citizens to remain focused on “the collective responsibility of building a more inclusive, united, and prosperous country where every Ghanaian, regardless of region or background, feels respected, valued, and represented.”
Looking Ahead
While the Council did not specify if further traditional or reconciliatory meetings are planned, its intervention is expected to help de-escalate tensions. This allows the Regional Minister to continue her duties while addressing the underlying concerns about regional sensitivity and inclusivity in national discourse.
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