For the first time since his arraignment in relation to the contentious Sky Train project, Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, the former Board Chairman of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF), has addressed the public, claiming his innocence and expressing his sincere gratitude for the tremendous support he has received.
Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi affirmed his not guilty plea to all allegations against him in a personal statement issued on Friday, May 30. He emphasized his dedication to accountability and openness, which he claims must be maintained within a framework of justice and fairness.
“I welcome the opportunity to clear my name and have full confidence in my innocence,” he added.
The former Education Minister, who held a number of positions during the John Agyekum Kufuor administration, is one of the former GIIF officials who are being prosecuted for the $2.3 billion Sky Train project that collapsed.
Launched in 2019 as part of an effort to modernize Ghana’s urban transportation infrastructure, the project was put on hold due to worries over procurement and its feasibility.
Although he called the time after learning of his indictment “challenging,” Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi said he had been profoundly touched by the outpouring of support.
He was thankful for the unwavering support of his family, close friends, and legal counsel during what he described as a difficult period.
“Their encouragement has strengthened my resolve to stay the course,” he said.
Importantly, Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi also recognized the backing of influential political leaders. He gave special gratitude to Hon. Kennedy Agyapong, the former MP for Assin Central, who he said exhibited “Santaclausian brotherliness.”
Additionally, he praised Hon. Martin Kwaku Agyei Mensah Korsah, the MP for Techiman South, whose backing “exemplifies the enduring strength of family ties,” in his words. ” Both figures are known allies within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), where Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi remains a respected elder.”
Source: newsthemegh.com