The Trades Union Congress (TUC) has been actively involved in discussions with North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa to expose the sale of SSNIT’s stake in four hotels.
Naa Ayele Ardayfio Sekyere, the Senior Officer in Charge of Public Relations and Campaign at TUC, disclosed that representatives of labor unions on the board of trustees of SSNIT have been against the sale of the Trust’s 60 percent stake in the hotels since 2018.
SSNIT’s management has responded to the allegations by stating that the Trust is looking to partner with a “strategic investor” to raise capital for the hotels and assist in their management. According to SSNIT, the aim of finding a strategic investor is to enhance efficiency, profitability, shareholder value, and the long-term sustainability of the SSNIT Pension Scheme.
During an appearance on “The Key Points,” Madam Ayele Ardayfio emphasized that organized labor has not allowed any actions that are not in the interest of workers to proceed at the board level. She addressed concerns about labor union representatives remaining silent on the matter, stating that they will only take action when they are certain of the best course of action.
She commended Hon. Okudzeto for his involvement and stated that they have been collaborating with him on the issue. Mr. Ablakwa has petitioned the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) to investigate various allegations related to the sale, including conflict of interest, abuse of power, lack of due process, procurement breaches, cronyism, and graft.
In his petition to CHRAJ, Mr. Ablakwa highlighted violations of the Constitution and raised concerns about the involvement of Hon. Bryan Acheampong in the sale without the necessary permission. The TUC remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the handling of SSNIT’s investments.
