Accra: Veteran journalist Kweku Baako Jnr has reopened public discussion surrounding the long-standing controversy over allegations that former President Jerry John Rawlings took several state vehicles after leaving office in 2001.
According to Ghana Web, Kweku Baako referenced a viral video in which the late former President lamented what he described as maltreatment by the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor after he exited power. The resurfaced video has reignited public debate and criticism directed at the Kufuor administration regarding its treatment of Rawlings after nearly two decades in office as Head of State and President.
Kweku Baako noted that questions continue to linger over the exact circumstances surrounding the controversy, including how many official vehicles Rawlings retained after leaving office and whether claims made by both sides were factual or exaggerated. The journalist highlighted that the alleged maltreatment of Rawlings by the Kufuor Administration has been a recurring topic in public discourse.
In his social media post titled 'Did President Kufuor Ever Accuse Rawlings of Stealing 19 State Vehicles Upon His Exit from Government? Fact or Fiction?', Baako questioned the factual accuracy of the claims and the circumstances that led to the heated public controversies. He stated his intention to compile and recollect facts through official communication and exchanges between the involved parties.
Baako shared copies of official correspondence exchanged between officials of the Rawlings office and the Presidency during the Kufuor administration. One letter, dated February 26, 2002, and signed by Victor Smith, Special Assistant and Director of Public Affairs in the Office of former President Rawlings, listed seven state vehicles being returned to the government. The letter also requested permission for Rawlings to retain several other vehicles for personal use, including Toyota Land Cruisers, Opel Omegas, a Toyota Crown, and Volkswagen Transporters.
Another letter, dated August 12, 2002, from then-Chief of Staff Kwadwo Mpiani, reminded Rawlings' office that under Article 68 of the 1992 Constitution and recommendations by the Greenstreet Committee, a retired President was entitled to only one chauffeur-driven vehicle provided by the state. The letter further stated that Rawlings still had several state-owned vehicles and requested that all but one be returned immediately.
Kweku Baako indicated that he intends to continue publishing details and official records related to the controversy to establish the facts behind the long-running public debate.