By: Juventus Kantaayel
The Minority in Parliament has strongly opposed the approval of Samuel Nartey George as the Minister for Communications, Digital Technology, and Innovations, citing concerns over his past statements and conduct.
During a parliamentary session, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin outlined the reasons for their stance, referencing controversial remarks made by Sam George about former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his alleged connection to illegal mining (galamsey).
“We believe that only a few people in this country get the opportunity to become president of this nation. In governance, a president encounters a lot of challenges, some he may not even know, and for the nominee to insist that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo benefitted from galamsey is most unfortunate,” Afenyo-Markin stated.
Additionally, the Minority Leader accused Sam George of failing to provide requested documents and not upholding the same standards of accountability he has demanded from others.
“He who comes to equity must do equity, and he who comes to equity must come with clean hands,” Afenyo-Markin added, affirming that the Minority would vote against his nomination based on these grounds.
Meanwhile, Sam George has dismissed the claims, asserting that he has fully complied with parliamentary requirements. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, he confirmed that he had submitted all the necessary documents to Parliament’s Appointments Committee, including:
Certified copies of his certificates from the London School of Economics (LSE) and the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre.
(KAIPTC)Proof of travel, receipts of accommodation, and fees paid.
“For the avoidance of any doubt and to settle any controversy, yesterday, I submitted to the Appointments Committee all the documents required of me, and more,” he stated.
Reaffirming his commitment to public service, he added: “Facts are sacred, and I remain resolute in my quest to serve my Nation to the best of my abilities. So help me God.”