Akandoh Breaks Silence on Handshake with Suspect at Ridge Hospital

Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has addressed growing public criticism following a video that showed him shaking hands with Ralph St. William, the social media personality accused of physically assaulting a health worker at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge Hospital). The video, which circulated widely online, captured the moment shortly after the Minister had concluded a meeting with the hospital’s management regarding the incident.

The handshake, perceived by many as a show of warmth or support towards the alleged perpetrator, has stirred concern and backlash from healthcare professionals, civil society groups, and members of the public. Many viewed the gesture as insensitive, especially in light of the seriousness of the allegations.

However, speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, August 21, 2025, Mr. Akandoh offered a detailed explanation of the circumstances surrounding the interaction. He stressed that the handshake was not a sign of approval or leniency, but rather an act of basic public courtesy expected from someone in his position.

According to the Minister, the incident occurred moments after he had concluded a closed-door meeting with the hospital’s leadership, during which he announced the formation of a committee to investigate the alleged assault. Upon exiting the meeting, he was informed that the accused individual was nearby.

“I was told that the man involved in the incident was present outside. As I stepped out, he approached me. I looked at him and asked, ‘Why did you do what you did?’” Mr. Akandoh explained. “At that point, he extended his hand for a handshake and leaned in as though to whisper something to me.”

Faced with the public nature of the situation and the presence of several onlookers, the Minister said he responded in a manner befitting a public servant.

“As a Minister of State, how was I expected to react? Should I have pushed him aside? Shouted at him? Even if the gentleman had already been tried, convicted, and sentenced, I still have a responsibility, as a public official, to conduct myself with civility,” he said.

Mr. Akandoh made it clear that the handshake in no way undermines the Ministry’s commitment to getting to the bottom of the issue. He reaffirmed his dedication to justice, stating that the formation of the investigative committee was a testament to the seriousness with which the matter is being handled.

“I want to state unequivocally that this government will not shield anyone found guilty of wrongdoing. The fact that I acknowledged him with a handshake doesn’t mean the process ends there. Investigations are ongoing, and appropriate actions will follow based on the findings,” he emphasized.

The Health Minister also addressed the widespread public reaction to the video, urging Ghanaians not to jump to conclusions based on brief clips taken out of context. He called for patience and encouraged all stakeholders to allow the investigative process to proceed without interference.

The committee, which includes members from the Ministry of Health, the Ghana Health Service, and relevant professional bodies, has been tasked with gathering all relevant facts and presenting recommendations for further action. The timeline for the investigation has not yet been disclosed, but the Minister assured that findings will be made public once available.

The alleged assault has reignited discussions about the safety and dignity of health workers across the country. Healthcare unions have since called for stronger protections for staff and have demanded swift action against anyone found guilty of attacks against medical personnel.

Mr. Akandoh concluded his remarks by reaffirming his respect for frontline health workers and reiterated that under his leadership, the Ministry of Health remains committed to ensuring safe and respectful working conditions for all health professionals.