Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu and convener of the ‘Hands off our Hotels’ demonstration, has announced that a second protest will take place in Cape Coast, Central Region.
The first demonstration, held on June 18, saw protesters demanding that the government halt the sale of 60% shares in four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel, a company owned by Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.
Ablakwa announced on his Facebook page that the second protest will be held in the Central Region, which is home to two of the affected hotels – Elmina Beach Hotel and Ridge Royal Hotel. He stated that the people of the Central Region have called for a “patriotic partnership” to stage the demonstration, and he has resolved to answer their call.
The decision comes after the Omanhene of the Edina Traditional Council wrote a letter opposing the sale of the hotel in Elmina. Ablakwa warned that if President Akufo-Addo fails to stop the sales within the next few days, a “similar massive protest” will be held in the Central Region.
The ‘Hands off our Hotels’ demonstration is a campaign against the sale of the hotels, which Ablakwa and others believe is unjustified and corrupt. They argue that the sale will lead to job losses and the loss of national assets. The protest has gained widespread support, with many Ghanaians expressing their opposition to the sale on social media. The government has yet to respond to the protesters’ demands.
The second demonstration is expected to be larger and more intense, with protesters vowing to continue the fight until their demands are met. Ablakwa has called on all Ghanaians to join the protest, saying “this is a matter of national interest” and “we must stand together to protect our nation’s assets”.
Felix is a tech reviewer, a teacher, blogger and the CEO of Kofiadutv. He is a graduate of Foso College of Education and Currently at University of Education, Winneba.
