The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed disappointment in the Chief of Staff, Frema Osei Opare, over her remarks regarding allegations of expired rice being repackaged and distributed to Senior High Schools.

Madam Osei Opare dismissed the claims as unfounded and accused critics of engaging in propaganda. Speaking about the issue, she said: “You know it is not true, so let us focus on things that move this country forward… propaganda and rumor-mongering have no place in education.”

However, in an interview on Joy FM’s Newsnight on Monday, Mr Ablakwa criticised the Chief of Staff for what he described as her dismissive approach to a serious matter.

“I am disappointed in the Chief of Staff. This is a woman I have a lot of respect for, but it appears she is learning from her boss. She also wants to be a clearing agent,” he said, referencing President Nana Akufo-Addo’s handling of similar controversies in the past.

Mr Ablakwa argued that, instead of rejecting the allegations outright, Madam Osei Opare should have launched a preliminary investigation. He suggested that her role required her to summon the Minister of Education, the National Food Buffer Stock Company (NAFCO) Board, and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to ensure the issue was properly addressed.

“As Chief of Staff, she is expected to coordinate all the institutions involved. What work did she do before making such comments? And as a mother, her first instinct should have been to seek verification rather than dismissing the matter,” Mr Ablakwa said.

He added that her response was inadequate and undermined efforts to ensure accountability within the education sector.

The allegations have raised concerns about food safety and the supply chain for schools across the country. NAFCO and the FDA are yet to issue detailed statements on the matter.

Source:TheDotNews