Breaking News: La Chiefs Join Okudzeto Ablakwa In “Hands Off Our Hotels” Demo

In a remarkable display of unity and community spirit, the chiefs and people of La, a suburb in Accra, have come together for the Hands Off Our Hotels demonstration. This movement, fueled by growing concerns over land and property rights, has seen significant momentum as local residents rally against what they perceive as unfair attempts to dispossess them of their lands and properties.

The demonstration saw a diverse turnout, including traders, employees, students, and elderly residents, all united in their cause. Their protest is specifically against the sale of four hotels owned by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to Rock City Hotel Limited. The hotels in question are Labadi Beach Hotel, La Palm Royal Beach Resort, Elmina Beach Resort, and Busua Beach Resort.

Leading the charge is Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for North Tongu. Ablakwa has been vocal in his opposition to the sale, highlighting community concerns about transparency and fairness in the process.

In response to the protests, SSNIT has defended its decision to sell a 60% stake in the four hotels to Rock City Hotel Limited. In a statement released on Sunday, May 19, 2024, SSNIT explained that Rock City Hotel Limited submitted the strongest technical and financial proposal among the bids received, meeting the criteria outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP).

SSNIT emphasized that the selection process was transparent and strictly complied with the Public Procurement Act, ensuring no favouritism was involved. According to SSNIT, the decision to partner with an investor aims to raise capital for further investments in their hotels and to improve their management.

The process, which began in 2018, utilized International Competitive Tendering (ICT) procedures to ensure a fair and competitive selection. SSNIT’s press release detailed that in November 2018, they hired a Transaction Advisor to guide the selection of a strategic investor. Based on the criteria set out in the RFP, Rock City Hotel Limited submitted the best and strongest technical and financial proposal. Consequently, negotiations are underway for Rock City Hotel Limited to acquire a 60% stake in each of the four hotels.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com