The Northern Caucus of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Parliament has called for the immediate resignation of the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Hon. Linda Ocloo, following what they describe as deeply offensive and regrettable remarks about Northern Ghana.
The caucus, led by Tolon MP and Deputy Minority Chief Whip, Hon. Habib Iddrisu, accused the minister of denigrating the North after she reportedly suggested that public officials who approve illegal building permits should be transferred to the North as punishment.
In a strongly worded statement, the caucus said the comment was not only inappropriate but an affront to the dignity of millions of Ghanaians.
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“This statement is not only insulting to every hardworking public servant in the north, but it is a direct assault on the dignity of an entire people,” the statement stressed.
According to the group, the remark reflects a rotten, elitist, and deeply offensive mindset that has no place in modern governance.
The caucus also expressed disappointment that the comment came from a female political leader, arguing that it undermines the broader struggle against marginalisation.
“To mock and marginalise others while belonging to a group that has historically cried out against marginalisation is a contradiction that cuts deep,” the statement noted.
The MPs rejected any notion that serving in Northern Ghana should be seen as punitive, describing such a view as outdated and harmful.
“To equate service in the North with penal servitude is to reveal a colonial mindset that has no place in Ghana of today,” the caucus declared.
They emphasized that the North remains a vital part of Ghana’s development, calling it “the breadbasket of the country and home to millions of proud citizens.”
The caucus further argued that the minister’s remarks violate provisions of the President’s Code of Conduct for appointees.
“If the President’s own appointee cannot abide by his ethical guidelines, what moral authority does this government have to demand discipline from others?” the statement questioned.
Drawing parallels with past incidents, the caucus cited the 2017 resignation of former Deputy Agriculture Minister William Quaittoo over similar comments about Northerners.
“If a minister in a previous administration lost his job for disparaging the North, why should this one be spared?” they asked.
The group urged President John Dramani Mahama to take decisive action, warning against what they describe as a potential double standard.
“An apology will not suffice… If she lacks the decency to resign, then the President must sack her with immediate effect,” the caucus demanded.