Ghana’s Communications Minister, Sam Nartey George, has strongly criticized the previous administration’s SIM card registration initiative, branding it a “sham” and a “national fraud.” Speaking on Joy News’ PM Express, the Ningo-Prampram MP asserted that the process, conducted under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government, was deeply flawed and deceptive.

According to George, the exercise, which was presented as a re-registration of SIM cards, was never a true registration to begin with. He accused the former government of misleading the public, saying, “There was a sham. There was a hoax. There was a hoodwinking of Ghanaians.” He added that the entire exercise wasted both public funds and private resources while ignoring citizens’ rights.

The minister condemned the management of the process as an example of poor governance, accusing the previous administration of claiming to register citizens without actually carrying out proper registration procedures. “Irresponsible public governance, to put it lightly,” he stated, pointing out that what took place was not backed by effective data management or legal compliance.

When asked why no one has yet been held responsible for the failed exercise, Sam George responded that investigations are underway. He confirmed that information has already been submitted to the Attorney General’s office and more evidence is being compiled. He assured the public that accountability would be pursued.

George contrasted his approach to leadership with that of his predecessors, emphasizing that he is conscious of the responsibility that comes with public office. “I sit in this chair today mindful of the fact that tomorrow I won’t be here,” he said, stressing that those who previously held his position seemed indifferent to such responsibility.

He questioned the integrity and patriotism of the former officials involved in the project, asking rhetorically whether they understood the duty of serving the nation. “Do they understand the weight of responsibility that sits on your shoulder when you hold the high office of Minister of State?” he asked.

Reflecting on the period between 2021 and 2023, George expressed disbelief at how the government conducted a flawed registration process that involved collecting citizens’ biometric data without appropriate safeguards or systems for verification. He accused the previous administration of violating data protection laws and compromising national security.

The Minister’s comments represent one of the strongest condemnations yet of the previous government’s digital initiatives, especially regarding SIM registration. His remarks have reignited public concerns around data management, financial accountability, and the protection of citizens’ digital rights.