Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for North Tongu Constituency, has strongly criticized the government for allegedly inflating the prices of equipment acquired for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).
Ablakwa claims that a parliamentary investigation has uncovered a staggering $102 million (GH₵1.6 billion) inflation in the cost of equipment procured for the project.
This means Ghanaian taxpayers are shouldering an unnecessary burden of $178.7 million, instead of the actual $76.6 million. Ablakwa revealed that the equipment, mainly sourced from Chinese manufacturers LiuGong and Shaanxi Automobile Holding Group, and supplied through J.A. Plantpool, a Zoomlion subsidiary, was bought at prices inflated by up to 217%.
Industry officials have expressed shock that bulk purchases did not result in discounted rates, but instead led to “cruel price escalations.” Ablakwa argues that this contradicts Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s previous statements criticizing single-sourcing contracts for being overpriced and not providing value for money.
Despite Bawumia’s promises to curb these practices, the DRIP contract has proven to be a glaring example of the very problem he vowed to end. Experts suggest that with $178.7 million, Ghana could have established its own road construction equipment manufacturing company.
Analysts believe Vice President Bawumia’s enthusiasm for DRIP is misplaced, given its limited potential impact on road construction. The NDC caucus in Parliament will launch a full investigation into the matter.
Ablakwa demands concrete action to prevent the full payment of the inflated amount and hold those responsible accountable for what he describes as a “national wrecking” deal.
Ablakwa urges the government to take immediate action to address the issue and ensure accountability. The NDC caucus will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind the inflated costs.
