Former Deputy Minister of Health and Member of Parliament for Akyem Oda, Alexander Akwasi Acquah, has criticised the reported nationwide shutdown of Ghana Health Service (GHS) health information systems over an outstanding cloud hosting bill of US$64,510.

The MP described the development as scandalous, questioning how critical health information systems could be allowed to go offline over what he considers a relatively small amount of money.

In a Facebook post, Mr Acquah expressed concern about the reported disruption, suggesting that it raises serious questions about the management of the country's health sector and the government's commitment to maintaining essential digital infrastructure.

He further questioned the reported lack of internet connectivity at the Ministry of Health itself, describing the situation as another troubling indication of the challenges confronting the sector.

"If you think this is not scandalous enough, go and ask why the Ministry of Health itself doesn't have Internet services!!!" he wrote.

The former Deputy Health Minister also used the development to criticise the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), ending his post with the political expression, "NDC never again."

His comments come amid concerns over the reliability of digital infrastructure supporting healthcare delivery and administration in Ghana.

The reported shutdown has raised questions about the government's preparedness to sustain critical health information systems, particularly given the growing importance of digital technology in patient records management, health data collection and the coordination of healthcare services.

Mr Acquah's remarks have also reignited discussions about the need for consistent investment in digital infrastructure, reliable internet connectivity and effective financial management within the health sector.

The circumstances surrounding the reported outstanding hosting bill, including the reasons for its non-payment and the extent of the disruption to Ghana Health Service operations, remain important issues requiring clarification from the relevant authorities.