Accra: Retired military officer and founder of the defunct UT Bank, Captain Prince Kofi Amoabeng, has revealed why he declined an opportunity to become Finance Minister during the era of former President Jerry John Rawlings. Captain Amoabeng was approached for the position after returning to Ghana from the United Kingdom, where he had pursued a course at the Royal Army Pay Corps on a scholarship from the Ministry of Defence. At the time, he was the only Chartered Accountant in the Ghana military, which made him a preferred candidate for the role.
According to Ghana Web, Captain Amoabeng personally knew and admired Rawlings for his courage but was fundamentally opposed to the coup that brought Rawlings to power, as it conflicted with his belief in institutions, structure, and constitutional order. He highlighted the highly uncertain political and military environment of the time, which made it dangerous for individuals to be perceived as either supporting or opposing the regime.
Captain Amoabeng explained that some junior military officers were exploiting the situation, and people could easily become targets merely because their political loyalties were questioned. Faced with this precarious situation, he decided to maintain a low profile, resign from the military, and keep his intentions private rather than accept the ministerial appointment. This decision was driven by his understanding of the volatile environment and the potential risks involved.