Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson has refuted media reports that she has downplayed the current economic predicament leaving Ghanaians to linger in poverty, saying “If you think rent is expensive in Ghana, go to Canada and see”
According to her, she referred to Canada in her interview to illustrate that the challenges Ghanaians face are part of a broader global trend.
She urged Ghanaians to watch the full interview to appreciate her statement.
“Contrary to the sensationalized reports, my intention was not to be insensitive to the valid concerns raised by citizens regarding the high cost of living,” she said in a statement.
Hawa Koomson acknowledged the economic hardships and pledged the Akufo-Addo government’s commitment to turn the corner.
“I am fully aware of the challenges our citizens are grappling with, especially on the back of post-global crises such as COVID-19 and now the Russia-Ukraine war,” Hawa Koomson stated.
“I want to assure our citizens that, as a Member of Parliament (MP) and a member of the government, I am fully aware and involved in actively working to alleviate the burdens of Ghanaians, we as promised to do.
Efforts continue on measures that will ease the strain on our fellow citizens example is the National Rental Assistance Scheme (NRAS) which was recently launched and is being implemented,” she assured.
Read Hawa Koomson’s full statement below
TO ALL MEDIA HOUSES
21/02/2024
Re: “Go to Canada and see – Hawa Koomson”
I feel compelled to address recent claims circulating in certain media outlets and political circles, misrepresenting my remarks during my appearance on Onua FM on February 20, 2024.
Contrary to the sensationalized reports, my intention was not to be insensitive to the valid concerns raised by citizens regarding the high cost of living.
During the interview, I referred to Canada to illustrate that the challenges we face are part of a broader global trend. For instance, in Canada, some individuals in this post-COVID era reportedly pay over 2000 Canadian dollars for a single room self-contained, a situation I recently learned.
I want to be unequivocal in stating that my aim was not to undermine the hardships faced by our people but to emphasize the universality of the issue.
It is therefore disheartening to witness these statements being twisted and spun for political gains.
I implore the public to disregard these misleading narratives. I am fully aware of the challenges our citizens are grappling with, especially on the back of post-global crises such as COVID-19 and now the Russia-Ukraine war.
I want to assure our citizens that, as a Member of Parliament (MP) and a member of the government, I am fully aware and involved in actively working to alleviate the burdens of Ghanaians, we as promised to do.
Efforts continue on measures that will ease the strain on our fellow citizens example is the National Rental Assistance Scheme (NRAS) which was recently launched and is being implemented.
The well-being of all Ghanaians is of utmost importance, and I remain committed to transparent and open communication. Let us work together to overcome these challenges and build a better future for all.
Sincerely,
Mavis Hawa Koomson
MP, Awutu Senya East
