If The Evacuation Was Clean, Let The Documents Speak — P.K. Sarpong Challenges Okudzeto Ablakwa

Writer and NPP sympathiser P.K. Sarpong has challenged Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to release documents relating to Ghana’s evacuation exercise in South Africa, arguing that the public deserves clear answers about the cost of the operation, payments made and the authorisation of the expenditure.

In a post shared on his official Facebook page on October 25, 2026, Sarpong questioned why the evacuation had become a subject of controversy if it was conducted transparently. He urged Ablakwa to provide the relevant records, address concerns raised by critics and allow the public to assess the available evidence.

Sarpong questioned the minister’s reported reliance on national security concerns to withhold invoices, contracts, payment records, receipts and other documents requested under the Right to Information framework. He contrasted this position with Ablakwa’s earlier disclosure of documents detailing the movements and itinerary of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo while the minister was in opposition.

According to Sarpong, the two positions raise questions about the consistent application of transparency principles. He acknowledged that legitimate national security concerns deserve protection but argued that authorities should specify which information cannot be disclosed and explain the security risks involved.

He also suggested that sensitive portions of the documents could be redacted while the remaining records were released. In his view, invoking national security should not automatically end legitimate scrutiny of public expenditure.

Sarpong called on Ablakwa to disclose the total cost of the evacuation, identify those who received payments, explain the services provided and clarify whether the expenditure was properly authorised and documented. He argued that the relevant records would help establish whether the reported figures were accurate and the expenditure properly accounted for.

He concluded that accountability should apply equally to public officials, regardless of their political positions. His comments have added to the debate over transparency and the handling of expenditure related to Ghana’s evacuation exercise in South Africa.

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