Mayor Karen Bass Attends Ghana Embassy Cocktail Party as Palisades Fire Erupts
In a stunning turn of events, Mayor Karen Bass found herself in the midst of controversy as the Palisades fire erupted in Los Angeles on Jan. 7. While attending an embassy cocktail party in Ghana, photos posted on social media captured her posing for pictures as massive plumes of smoke billowed across the city she leads.
Timing and Scrutiny
Bass had traveled to Ghana as part of a Biden administration delegation to the inauguration of Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama. She was abroad on Jan. 4 when the National Weather Service issued warnings about an impending windstorm. Upon her return to Los Angeles on Jan. 8, more than 24 hours after the fires began, she faced intense scrutiny for her decision to leave the city amid the weather warnings.
Controversial Departure
A spokesperson for the mayor revealed that she spent most of the party making calls in a separate room, away from the festivities. The delegation departed Ghana for the United States on a military plane after a reception hosted by the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana. Photos posted on social media by a city staffer showed Bass engaging with attendees and smiling at the low-key affair.
Public Outcry
As the fires raged on in Los Angeles, Bass’s absence drew criticism from various quarters. Her former mayoral opponent, Rick Caruso, and prominent figures like Tommy Vietor and Ari Emanuel voiced their disapproval of her delayed return. The city issued evacuation orders minutes after 12 p.m. on the day of the fire, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
In the wake of the unfolding events, questions remain about Bass’s decision-making and leadership during a crisis that demanded her immediate attention. The juxtaposition of her presence at a diplomatic function abroad while her city faced a natural disaster has sparked a public outcry and calls for greater accountability from elected officials.
As Angelenos grapple with the aftermath of the Palisades fire, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Mayor Karen Bass and her actions during a critical moment in the city’s history. The unfolding saga serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by leaders in times of crisis and the expectations placed upon them by the communities they serve.
