Accra: NDC communicator Hajia Alimatu Issahak has defended the government's decision to reject a GHS20 million donation from MTN Ghana intended to support the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa. She emphasized that the rejection was motivated by concerns about national dignity and the context surrounding the evacuation rather than a lack of financial need.
According to Ghana Web, Hajia Issahak argued that MTN, being a company originating from South Africa, should have prioritized advocating for an end to the attacks on foreigners in the country rather than offering financial assistance to Ghana. 'MTN is from South Africa and if they had any advice, they should have given it to their nation to stop the attacks on foreigners instead of just bringing us money,' she remarked.
Issahak highlighted the importance of national pride, asserting that Ghana should not accept financial aid simply due to difficulties, and underscored the significance of maintaining dignity. 'We will not just accept any money. National pride and dignity are very important,' she added.
She further elaborated on the government's stance by referencing a local saying, indicating that challenging circumstances should not force the country to accept all forms of aid. 'There is a saying that the fact that you are hungry doesn't mean you just drink from any cup,' she explained.
These comments come amid ongoing public debate over the government's spending on the evacuation of Ghanaians from South Africa and the decision to decline the MTN donation. The Minority in Parliament has raised questions regarding the evacuation process, including the government's expenses. However, the government has insisted that the evacuation was crucial to safeguard Ghanaians affected by the attacks in South Africa.