The Founder and Executive Chairman of Big Events Ghana, Prince Mackay, has strongly defended the decision to honour Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo at this year’s Ghana Ministers Awards, insisting that the recognition was based on her performance within a clearly defined assessment period.
The award has generated significant public debate, particularly in light of recent flooding incidents in parts of the capital, with critics questioning whether the minister deserved the honour amid ongoing drainage and infrastructure challenges.
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express Business Edition on Monday, Prince Mackay clarified that the awards scheme had a specific review period — from January 2025 to May 2026.
“Let me underline, or let me mention the year under review for doing these awards. We stated categorically clear that the year under review was 2025 to May of 2026,” he said.
He emphasised that evaluations were based strictly on work done during that timeframe and not on subsequent events, including the recent floods.
“So we look at the work that they have done within the space and not now or in June, when the rains are flooded, that we have this crisis that we are all complaining about, the fact that she has not done anything to deserve the award,” he stated.
Prince Mackay highlighted some of the minister’s key initiatives during the review period, including efforts to improve lighting in Accra and her firm stance against illegal structures on Ramsar sites and other protected areas.
“If you look at our honourable minister, Greater Accra Regional Minister, from day one, she has been engaging, making sure that she will light up Accra, making sure that those who have built on Ramsar sites should pull them down,” he noted.
He added that the minister demonstrated toughness in enforcing directives despite resistance from influential individuals.
The Presidency has since distanced itself from the awards, clarifying that it neither organised nor endorsed the event.
Prince Mackay maintained that the awards were based on measurable performance and not swayed by recent public sentiment triggered by the flooding.
The controversy continues to spark discussions about the timing and criteria for honouring public officials.
