The National Tenants' Union of Ghana has expressed its dismay over a statement made by Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson, the Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, during a live broadcast on Onua TV on 21st February 2024. The minister was quoted as saying, “If you think rent is expensive in Ghana, go to Canada and see,” a statement deemed distasteful by the union.
In response to this, the Union is calling for an unqualified apology from Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson to the citizens of Ghana. The Union considers the statement reckless, especially given her position as a Member of Parliament. The high cost of rental accommodations in Ghana is acknowledged as a critical issue, contributing to deepening poverty and the rise of slums, posing significant challenges in achieving adequate shelter for all.
The National Tenants' Union also calls on President Akufo-Addo to intervene and address the matter. They believe that such statements bring the office occupied by Hon. Koomson into public ridicule and disrepute, which is unbecoming of a Minister of State.
As representatives of the people, the Union emphasizes that leaders should focus on comforting and addressing the concerns of the citizens regarding the cost of rent and income disparities, rather than making statements that may be perceived as mocking or vilifying.
The Union hopes that Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson will come forward to ask for forgiveness from her constituents and the general public for her statement.
