The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed disappointment in Chief of Staff, Frema Osei Opare over her comments regarding the allegedly repackaged expired rice scandal involving Senior High Schools.

Madam Osei Opare in commenting about the allegations described the issue as untrue and propagandist which should not be allowed in the education sector.

“You know it is not true, so let us focus on things that move this country forward… propaganda and rumor-mongering have no place in education,” she said.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Newsnight on Monday, November 18, Mr Ablakwa criticised Madam Osei Opare for dismissing the matter as “propaganda” without conducting a thorough investigation.

• Read also: Propaganda and rumours have no place in education – Chief of Staff on ‘expired’ rice scandal

“I am disappointed in the Chief of Staff. This is an enormous woman I have a lot of respect for, but it appears she is learning from her boss. She also wants to be a clearing agent,” he remarked.

Mr. Ablakwa argued that as Chief of Staff should have taken a more proactive role by summoning the Minister of Education, the National Food Buffer Stock Company Limited (NAFCO) Board, and the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to address the issue.

He further suggested she should have conducted preliminary investigations rather than dismissing the allegations outright.

“What work did she do as Chief of Staff? Someone who must coordinate all these institutions that have let us down… And as a mother, all you do is say this is untrue, this is propaganda without any verification. I am totally appalled, disgusted, and disappointed in Madam Frema Osei Opare for this conduct,” Mr Ablakwa stated.