Arrest of suspected arsonists not a hoax – Gov’t insists

The Presidency has dismissed claims by some members of the opposition New Patriotic Party that the arrest of some persons suspected to be behind the series of fire outbreaks at market centres in the country is a hoax.

According to Deputy Information Minister, Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, government will soon publish detailed information about the suspects, as soon as the security agencies are through with their screening.

Government on Thursday announced the arrest of some persons suspected to be behind the recent fire outbreaks at major market centres in the country, but did not give out their details. It also claimed the security agencies have also foiled attempts to burn another market in the country.

New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Fanteakwa South, Kofi Okyere Agyekum speaking on Asempa FM’s Ekosii Sen programme, described the news as a "hoax".

According to him, the arrest is a "publicity stunt" to give credence to government’s suspicion that the recent market fires are the handiwork of arsonists.

But addressing journalists at the Flagstaff House Friday, Mr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed said the names and ages of the suspects, including the places they were arrested, will be made public at the appropriate time.

Performance Contract

In another development, President John Mahama has started reviewing performance contracts presented by members of his government.

According to the Deputy Information Minister, each minister will be assessed by the president on their vision and what they intend to achieve for their respective ministries, subsequent to which their appointments will either be renewed or terminated.

He said the performance contract is tailored towards helping the John Mahama Administration to achieve its target.