Akandoh explains handshake with alleged assault suspect at Ridge Hospital

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has explained his decision to exchange a handshake with social media activist Ralph St. William, who is currently facing accusations of assaulting a nurse at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.

A video of the handshake, which quickly went viral on social media, has sparked public backlash. Many critics questioned why the minister chose to greet the man at the centre of the case, especially right after holding talks with hospital authorities over the incident.

In a press conference on Thursday, August 21, 2025, Mr. Akandoh explained that the gesture was not an endorsement of the alleged assault but an act of courtesy expected of a public official.

“After our meeting with the hospital management, my attention was drawn to the gentleman said to be involved in the matter. When I approached him, I asked why he had done what he did. He stretched out his hand to greet me, and I responded. Should I have pushed him away or shouted at him? Even if he had been prosecuted and sentenced to life imprisonment, if he stretched his hand, I still have a duty as a minister to respond,” the Health Minister said.

He stressed that the incident does not affect government’s determination to pursue accountability. According to him, a committee has already been constituted to investigate the alleged assault, and appropriate action will be taken once the findings are presented.

“The fact that I shook hands with him does not mean I will stop the measures the ministry or government will take to address the issue,” Mr. Akandoh added.

The Health Minister reiterated that while courtesy is expected of public officials, it must not be mistaken for leniency in holding people accountable.