Accra: Madam Abla Dzifa Gomashie, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, has described the reported assault on art patron and businessman Ibrahim Mahama as 'totally unacceptable.' In a statement issued in Accra, she expressed concern and regret over the incident and conveyed the Ministry's solidarity.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister highlighted Mr. Mahama's significant contributions to Ghana's creative arts sector, particularly through Red Clay Studio, which has elevated contemporary Ghanaian art and enhanced the country's global cultural presence. She mentioned that she had engaged the Minister for the Interior, who assured her that the Inspector-General of Police had initiated investigations into the matter.
Madam Gomashie emphasized the need for accountability, stating that incidents undermining personal dignity and safety must be treated with utmost seriousness in a country governed by justice and the rule of law. In an interview on Citi Prime News, she mentioned contacting Mr. Mahama after learning of the incident through a colleague and obtaining his consent to escalate the matter to the appropriate authorities.
She expressed concern over recurring reports of alleged misconduct by security personnel and warned that failure to address such issues could erode public trust. The Minister stressed the urgency of systemic reforms, acknowledging that while citizens may express frustrations with security agencies, it did not justify abuse.
The Minister noted Mr. Mahama's standing as a respected figure with no known record of misconduct and cautioned that if such treatment could be meted out to him, ordinary citizens could be more vulnerable. She assured that the Ministry was ready to provide support to Mr. Mahama, including assistance throughout his recovery and any pursuit of justice.
Madam Gomashie cautioned against prejudging the outcome of investigations but noted that visible evidence of harm had generated public sympathy. She called on the Police to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry and ensure that any wrongdoing was duly punished, reiterating the Ministry's stance against abuse and its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all Ghanaians.