Businessman Ibrahim Mahama has strongly rejected reports that he is attempting to buy the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO), calling the claims untrue and stating that he intends to take legal steps against those who made them.
The response comes after the Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU)-Ghana submitted a petition to President John Dramani Mahama asking the government to stop any planned disposal of VALCO.
The union also held a protest march amid suggestions that the state-owned aluminium firm might be sold, with some demonstrators claiming the buyer would be Mr Mahama, the founder of Engineers & Planners and the President’s brother.
In a Facebook statement issued by his Special Aide, Rafik Mahama, the businessman made clear that he has shown no interest in VALCO and has not submitted any offer to purchase it.
“Mr Ibrahim Mahama has no such interest and has not made any such offer to acquire VALCO,” the statement declared.
It portrayed the claims as the latest in a series of efforts aimed at damaging his reputation.
“Unfortunately, the allegation is the latest in several vile attempts to impute the integrity of Ibrahim Mahama and subject him to needless public engagements,” the statement continued.
The aide further highlighted Mr Mahama’s business record, noting that every company in which he holds a stake was set up or obtained through legal means and continues to operate in line with the relevant laws.
“The track record of the integrity of the businesses that Mr Mahama has interest in proves that his businesses are one of the best-run operations across the African continent. All of the business interests of Mr Mahama have been legally commenced or acquired and operate within the ambit of applicable laws.”
According to the statement, Mr Mahama remains dedicated to supporting Ghana’s progress through investment and has directed his lawyers to begin legal proceedings over the allegations.
“He is committed to contributing his quota to the development of Ghana by investing in business opportunities in Ghana and beyond. He has instructed his lawyers to take the necessary legal action,” the statement said.
ICU-Ghana continues to argue that VALCO is a vital national asset that must stay in Ghanaian hands and has called on the government to drop any privatisation plans.
