Minister Samuel Nartey George has strongly condemned the sale of AiringTigo, a telecommunications company, for a staggering price of just $1, despite being burdened with a massive GHC3.5 billion debt.
The Minister described those responsible for the transaction as “enemies of the state” and questioned their patriotism.
He revealed that the American Tower Company (ATC) has presented a bill of 1.5 billion Ghana Cedis, highlighting the company’s significant financial liabilities. The Minister’s concerns were further amplified by discussions with the American Embassy, which emphasized the extent of AirtelTigo’s indebtedness.
“Those who managed the AirtelTigo process are enemies of our state and individuals who have no sense of patriotism. So for anybody to have told us that they bought AirtelTigo for 1 dollar, and now that we have taken over the ministry, ATC (American Tower Company), just one of the companies AirtelTigo owes, has presented us with a bill of 1.5 billion Ghana Cedis,” he stated.
The sale of AirtelTigo has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the logic behind purchasing a debt-ridden company for a token price. The transaction has sparked outrage, with the Minister demanding answers on who will foot the massive debt.
“The American Embassy, along with their team, was in my office, and one of the major issues raised was the indebtedness to ATC. The debt sitting on the books of AirtelTigo exceeds 3.5 billion Ghana Cedis.
“So if someone told you that they bought it for 1 dollar, who is going to pay the 1.3 billion that is sitting there and accumulating interest?” he questioned.
