Ablakwa Announces Second ‘Hands Off Our Hotels’ Protest in Cape Coast

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu and organizer of the ‘Hands Off Our Hotels’ demonstration, has revealed plans for a second protest in the Central Region.

This decision comes after leading demonstrators on Tuesday, June 18, to exert pressure on the government to halt the sale of 60 percent shares in four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel, owned by Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong.

Highlighting increased support from the Central Region, where two affected hotels—Elmina and Ridge Royal—are situated, Mr. Ablakwa referenced a letter from the Omanhene of the Edina Traditional Council opposing the sale of the Elmina hotel.

He cautioned that a second protest would ensue if the government did not address the demonstrators’ demands promptly.

Taking to social media on Thursday, June 20, Mr. Ablakwa affirmed his commitment to the cause, acknowledging the widespread resistance from residents of the Central Region and confirming plans for another demonstration in the area.

“I wish to assure the respected chiefs and esteemed people of the Central Region, who have called on us to collaborate patriotically for the next #HandsOffOurHotels demonstration, given their strong opposition to the sale of Elmina Beach Hotel and Ridge Royal Hotel, both in the Central Region, that we have unanimously agreed and resolved to organize a similar massive protest in the Central Region if President Akufo-Addo does not halt the sales in the coming days,” he posted.