The Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC) has dismissed claims that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo publicly reprimanded Greater Accra Regional Minister Henry Quartey during the 2023 Green Ghana Day event.
The clarification follows the circulation of a viral video from the tree-planting ceremony held at the University of Ghana on Friday, June 9, which some interpreted as showing the President expressing displeasure with the Regional Minister.
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In a statement signed by the Acting Chief Director of GARCC, Jemima Lomotey, the Council explained that the President had merely instructed Mr Quartey to address a group of invited guests who remained seated while the National Anthem was being played.
According to the statement, the President and other attendees were standing in respect for the National Anthem when he directed the Regional Minister to intervene. Mr Quartey subsequently approached the individuals and advised them accordingly.
The Council stressed that the incident should not be interpreted as a reprimand, noting that the Regional Minister remained seated beside the President throughout the event, reflecting their cordial working relationship.
GARCC urged the public to disregard what it described as misleading interpretations of the video intended to create unnecessary public disaffection.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Mempeasem, Nii Torgbor Obodai Ampaw, who was among those present at the event, issued a public apology for remaining seated during the National Anthem.
In a statement, the chief explained that he had been unwell on the day of the event, which prevented him from standing to observe the anthem.
