The Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Health, Tony Goodman, has defended Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh amidst public backlash over his conduct following the assault on a nurse at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, also known as Ridge Hospital.

Critics have accused the Minister of “fraternising” with Ralph Saint Williams, one of the alleged perpetrators, after a viral video showed them shaking hands and hugging.

But in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Mr Goodman argued that the Minister deserved commendation for his swift response rather than condemnation.

“Why should we be using the word ‘fraternising’? Was the Minister supposed to remove his shirt and attack the guy? That is not his role. He gave clear directives to the police for investigations and showed leadership at the hospital,” Mr Goodman stated.

He stressed that Mr Akandoh was the first official to arrive at the Ridge Hospital after the incident, directing management to prioritise care for affected staff, engaging the Greater Accra Regional Police Command, and calling for improved security at the facility.

Mr. Goodman also criticised the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA) for “finding their voice” only after the Minister had acted.

“When someone does something right, we should acknowledge it. The Minister ensured that the matter was taken up immediately, while others were silent. When the incident happened, the association was nowhere to be found,” he said.

Mr Goodman insisted that the Minister’s actions, condemning the attack, ensuring staff protection, and initiating police investigations, demonstrated responsibility and a commitment to justice, urging the public not to judge him solely by a brief handshake.

Meanwhile, he confirmed the arrest of a suspect linked to the assault, with a manhunt ongoing for Ralph, believed to be the prime suspect.