The Ga Traditional Council has expressed its support for Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Obenewaa Akweley Ocloo, following public backlash over comments she made about staff postings to northern Ghana. The Council described the situation as an “unfortunate lapse in communication” rather than an act of disrespect or malice.
In a press statement issued on May 7, 2026, and signed by Ga Mantse and President of the Council, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, the traditional authority acknowledged that the comments had generated concern and disappointment, particularly among people from the Northern Regions.
However, it stressed that it did not believe the Minister intended to demean or undermine the dignity of any group.
According to the Council, “We believe the Minister’s remarks amounted to an unfortunate lapse in communication rather than a deliberate expression of malice or disrespect.”
The controversy stems from remarks attributed to Hon. Ocloo, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Shai Osudoku, regarding staff postings to northern Ghana. Although her exact comments have circulated widely on social media, they were interpreted by some sections of the public as dismissive toward people from the north.
The Ga Traditional Council noted that the Minister had since clarified her remarks and expressed regret over any misunderstanding or offence caused. It also extended an apology to individuals who may have felt hurt or marginalised by the comments.
“We commend her for publicly clarifying her remarks and expressing remorse over the misunderstanding,” the statement added.
The Council appealed to the public, opinion leaders and stakeholders to treat the matter with understanding and a spirit of reconciliation.
It further noted that public office comes with pressure and occasional missteps, adding that isolated comments should not overshadow years of service and commitment to national development.
Emphasising national unity, the Council stated that Ghana’s strength lies in its diversity, stressing that all regions remain equally important to the country’s progress.
“Every region of our country remains equally valuable and indispensable to national development,” it said.
Hon. Linda Ocloo, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), was appointed Greater Accra Regional Minister following the party’s return to power. Known for her strong grassroots presence, she has at times attracted attention for her direct communication style.
The incident has since triggered broader discussions about regional sensitivity and perceptions of northern Ghana within public and professional spaces, with some critics warning that such sentiments could discourage professionals from accepting postings to the northern regions.
The Ga Traditional Council urged Ghanaians to remain focused on building a more inclusive and united country where all citizens, regardless of background or location, feel respected and represented.
While the Council did not indicate any further mediation steps, its intervention is widely seen as an effort to ease tensions and promote calm as the matter continues to draw public attention.