Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has issued a formal demand for a retraction and apology from New Patriotic Party (NPP) activist P.K. Sarpong over allegations that he received a Lexus vehicle as a gift in violation of President John Dramani Mahama’s recently introduced Code of Conduct for government appointees.
In a Facebook post, Sarpong claimed that Mr. George was using an “unregistered vehicle” described as a “top of the range Lexus,” alleging it was a gift from an unnamed individual.
He suggested that this act contravened the President’s directive, which cautions against the acceptance of gifts by government officials to prevent potential conflicts of interest.
Responding to the allegations, Mr. George, through his legal representatives at Korsah & Ackah @ Law, categorically denied the claims, labeling them as “defamatory and injurious.”
In a letter dated Tuesday, May 20, the Minister’s lawyers demanded that Sarpong remove the Facebook post, issue a public retraction, and offer an unqualified apology within seven days.
Failure to comply with these demands, the letter warns, will result in legal action, including a defamation lawsuit.
“You are fully aware that your publication is devoid of truth. Nonetheless, you have proceeded to make this misinformation public, with the apparent intention of tarnishing the hard-earned reputation of our client. Such conduct is defamatory and injurious.
“By this letter, you are hereby formally demanded to cease and desist from making or publishing any further false claims about our client.”
Mr. George clarified that the vehicle in question, a 2024 Lexus LX600, was personally purchased and financed through a loan facility provided by the National Investment Bank under the Ghana Government and Parliamentary Service scheme.
He emphasized that the acquisition was lawful and transparent, countering the allegations made by Sarpong.
The President’s Code of Conduct, introduced earlier this month, stipulates that any gift received by a government appointee with an estimated value exceeding GH₵20,000 must be declared, aiming to uphold integrity and accountability within public office.
As of now, P.K. Sarpong has not publicly responded to the demands outlined in the cease and desist letter.
…..
Explore the world of impactful news with CitiNewsroom on WhatsApp!
Click on the link to join the Citi Newsroom channel for curated, meaningful stories tailored just for YOU:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
No spam, just the stories that truly matter! #StayInformed #CitiNewsroom #CNRDigital