Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has issued a sharp rebuttal to U.S. Senator Jim Risch over remarks the senator made concerning Ghana’s debt and foreign policy priorities.
Senator Risch had criticised Ghana’s focus on diplomatic efforts in Washington, alleging that the country was prioritising debt repayments to China over obligations to U.S. companies and taxpayers.
In response, Ablakwa described the comments as “offensive and condescending,” defending Ghana’s right to manage its international affairs without foreign interference.
“This is Kwame Nkrumah’s Ghana — the first African nation to defeat colonialism and imperialism,” he wrote. “Those measly debts, compared to what you owe us in reparations, will be paid when we deem appropriate based on our prudent economic recovery program.”
He stressed that the debts in question were not incurred by the current administration but assured that the Mahama-led government remains committed to meeting all legitimate obligations.
Ablakwa concluded by urging Senator Risch to focus on historical accountability rather than attempting to dictate Ghana’s foreign policy choices.
