Member of Parliament for Ketu South and Minister for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Hon. Abla Dzifa Gomashie, has firmly dismissed what she describes as “mischievous and ill-informed accusations” by a section of her own party’s members alleging that she diverted funds meant for the Aflao Ultra-Modern Market Project to renovate parts of the National Theatre and Arts Centre in Accra.
Addressing the issue during exclusive interview News Volta,, the outspoken MP clarified that the two projects — the Aflao Market and the National Theatre renovation — are completely separate initiatives, each funded independently under distinct agreements.
According to Hon. Gomashie, the US$30 million Chinese grant secured under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration for the Aflao Market remains intact and is earmarked exclusively for that purpose.
She explained that the National Theatre renovation is also being supported by Chinese funding, but through a different cultural exchange framework under her ministry’s portfolio.
“It is primitive and reckless to assume that because my name is associated with both projects, I must be diverting funds. My duties as a Minister of State and my responsibilities as an MP intersect — but the finances do not,” she stressed.
Hon. Gomashie expressed disappointment that individuals within her own party would seek to “tarnish her image and undermine genuine development efforts” at a time when unity and progress are most needed.
She used the opportunity to educate constituents on how government projects are funded and implemented, explaining that an MP cannot redirect resources approved under a presidential or ministerial portfolio without due process.
“No single minister or MP can touch funds allocated through a sovereign bilateral agreement. Those saying otherwise either lack understanding or are being deliberately deceptive,” she said.
The MP reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to ensuring the successful delivery of the Aflao Market Project, which she described as “the economic heartbeat of Ketu South.”
She also extended appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama, the Chinese Ambassador H.E. Tong Defa, and the Volta Regional Minister Hon. James Gunu for their continued collaboration in making the Aflao Market dream a reality.
“We have come too far to allow petty propaganda to derail the vision. Let’s focus on the progress, not the noise,” Hon. Gomashie concluded.
Source Hebrews Pouyeli Kumako II News Volta
