Minister of Interior Henry Quartey has vehemently denied accusations that he tried to bribe members of the opposition in Parliament by offering them positions in the security services in exchange for their support.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia (aka General Mosquito) accused Interior Minister Henry Quartey of attempting to bribe NDC MPs by offering them police recruitment slots to quiet their opposition to the enlistment of 10,000 party loyalists into the police force.
Asiedu Nketia expressed concerns that this could compromise the upcoming election’s peace.
However, Quartey vehemently denied the allegations, explaining that he merely informed colleagues about open recruitment portals and suggested they notify their constituents to apply, emphasizing it was a goodwill gesture, not a bribe.
“Let me say categorically that I did not bribe any Member of Parliament,” Mr. Quartey emphasized.
He further explained that his comments were made during a closed-door meeting with legislators and were not intended to influence or bribe anyone.
“…When you say bribe it is a very strong statement to use. I find it interesting that the National Chairman (of the NDC) can use the word bribe. How do you bribe a Member of Parliament”, Mr. Quartey asked.
“Of course, MPs have got constituents who may have also bought forms, is it wrong is saying that if they have bought forms, they should go through the same process. Is it wrong? I am not saying that bring me five (of them) so I can put them there. So, let me say categorically that I did not bribe any Member of Parliament”.
The Interior Minister clarified that his statement was merely a reminder to all MPs to inform their constituents who applied for recruitment in 2021 to participate in the process.
He emphasized that the security services should remain impartial and free from political influence, and assured that he had no plans to take legal action against Mr. Asiedu Nketiah for his accusations.
“We are in a political season, frankly speaking I am not going to waste my time and energy to go to court over this. I am not going to do that but I just want to make it clear that there was no attempt to bribe any MP and I don’t have a list of 10,000 on my desk,” he said.
He reaffirmed his dedication to upholding national peace and security, emphasizing that his primary focus is on serving the country, not pursuing personal or political agendas.
