- Minority demands halt on $34.9m payment to SGAGL.
- Deal described as scandalous and unconscionable.
- Lack of transparency and expertise in procurement process.
- Call for accountability and investigation.
The Minority in Parliament held an emergency news conference on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, to address a pressing issue. They called on President Akufo-Addo to immediately halt the payment of US$34.9 million to Service Ghana Auto Group Limited (SGAGL) for ambulance spare parts.
The Minority described the deal as scandalous, unconscionable, and a sweetheart deal, highlighting its connection to the presidential family. They demanded that the President instruct his Chief of Staff, Frema Opare, to stop pressuring the Ministers of Health and Finance to make unlawful payments to SGAGL.
The Minority also urged the Office of the Special Prosecutor to expedite investigations and prosecute all individuals involved in the US$34.9 million ambulance spare parts deal. They emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.
The Chairman of the Assurances Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, addressed the media, responding to a statement from SGAGL. He condemned the company’s use of threats to prevent parliamentary scrutiny and media discussions, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.
Ablakwa noted that SGAGL’s statement failed to address the politically exposed status of a key director, Stephen Okoro, who is a close business partner of the President’s daughters. He highlighted the need for scrutiny of politically exposed persons to prevent corruption.
The Minority also questioned SGAGL’s claim of participating in a competitive procurement process, citing records that show the company was incorporated much later than claimed. They also raised concerns about the expertise and track record of the companies involved in the procurement process.
Ablakwa emphasized that the companies involved had no expertise in ambulance procurement and after-sales maintenance, which likely explains why the Auditor-General exposed SGAGL for using staff of the National Ambulance Service for their maintenance contract.
The Minority further disputed SGAGL’s claim that companies in its consortium put in a bid at US$133,000 per ambulance, calling it a blatant falsehood. They reiterated their demand for accountability and transparency in the deal.
The Minority’s call for action comes amidst growing concerns about corruption and the use of public funds. They emphasized the need for the President to take immediate action to halt the payment and ensure accountability.
The Minority’s press conference highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds. They called on the President to take immediate action to address the concerns raised and ensure that those involved are held accountable.
