Ghana’s Foreign Minister’s recent spat with a US Senator on social media has sparked controversy, with the CEO of the Ghana Association of Bankers, John Awuah, weighing in on the matter. According to Awuah, the Minister’s response was not only wrong but also used a tone that was too pedestrian, given the potential consequences of such a public exchange.
Awuah emphasized the need for diplomatic channels to resolve the issue, warning that turning it into a political football would only harm Ghana’s interests. “Let’s not turn this development into another political football – that approach only leads to one end, Ghana loses,” he cautioned.
The CEO advised public office holders to exercise caution when using social media for official communication, stressing that once something is posted online, it can’t be taken back. Awuah suggested that the President’s involvement may be necessary to resolve the situation, highlighting the importance of careful consideration in diplomatic interactions.
This development comes after US Senator Jim Risch sparked controversy with a post urging Ghana to prioritize debt repayment to American companies over larger commitments to China. Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, also criticized the Foreign Minister’s response, describing Senator Risch’s comment as a “harmless suggestion” and suggesting a more measured approach would have been wiser.