Government rejects claims over viral Mahama video, says remarks were taken out of context
Ghana's government says a viral video of President John Mahama has been taken out of context, insisting his remarks referred to the release of GH¢150 million for post-flood mitigation works.
The government has moved to counter claims circulating online after a viral video of President John Dramani Mahama sparked widespread debate, insisting the President's remarks had been taken out of context and misrepresented for political purposes.
The clarification came on Monday after excerpts of a conversation involving the President spread across social media, prompting competing interpretations of what he meant.
In a statement posted on Facebook on Monday July 27, the Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, said the video had been deliberately distorted by political opponents.
"Some misguided elements have sought to distort the President's words in this video to achieve narrow partisan ends," Mr Kwakye Ofosu said.
According to the minister, President Mahama was discussing the government's decision to release GH¢150 million for post-flood mitigation works during a meeting with the National Security Coordinator.
"The President clearly speaks of the 'release' of GH¢150 million, which was in direct reference to funds for post-flood mitigation works. That is what he was discussing with the National Security Coordinator and nothing more," he said.
The government did not specify which claims circulating online it was responding to but maintained that the President's comments related exclusively to financing flood response and prevention measures.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu urged the public to treat the viral posts with caution and verify information before sharing it.
"Disregard the mischievous lies!" he added.
The incident underscores the growing influence of social media in Ghana's political discourse, where short video clips often circulate widely before official explanations are issued. It also reflects the increasing challenge governments face in responding quickly to claims they believe misrepresent official statements.
The latest controversy comes as the Mahama administration continues to oversee post-flood recovery efforts following severe flooding in parts of the country, with officials saying the released funds are intended to support mitigation projects aimed at reducing the impact of future disasters.