Former President and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has announced the NDC’s uncompromising stance on the Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML) agreement.
He unequivocally stated, “NDC government under me will not accept or recognize this SML agreement. We will not accept or recognize the SML agreement.”
This strong position comes in the wake of allegations of corruption related to the SML deal, where the company receives up to GH₵24 million monthly payments from the government of Ghana.
The contract, which involved monitoring Upstream Petroleum Production and auditing the value chain of Minerals and Metals Resources, came under scrutiny following an investigation by “The Fourth Estate” media establishment.
Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo took swift action on January 2, 2024, instructing the finance ministry and the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to suspend the controversial revenue assurances contract with SML. KPMG has been tasked with conducting an audit to assess the appropriateness of the deal.
Parliament has also initiated investigations into the alleged shady contract, highlighting the seriousness of the matter.
Mahama, addressing professional bodies emphasized the NDC’s commitment to accountability, stating, “and for the money that they’ve taken already we would hold them to account.”
Meanwhile, Mahama took the opportunity to question the commitment of the Akufo-Addo-led government in the fight against corruption.
Referring to Transparency International’s latest report, which maintained Ghana’s corruption score at 43 for the fourth consecutive year, ranking 70th out of 180 countries, Mahama criticized the lack of progress. He remarked, “It is clear that this government is not interested in the fight against corruption.”
Drawing attention to the Ghana Integrity Initiative’s report, Mahama expressed concerns about the Special Prosecutor’s effectiveness, particularly in cases involving individuals closely connected to the government. The former president alleged, “Those who are engaged in corruption are the people closest to him[President].”
President John Mahama voiced deep apprehension regarding the nation’s unyielding Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) score.
Transparency International’s latest report revealed that Ghana has maintained a score of 43 for the fourth consecutive year, ranking 70th out of 180 countries and territories assessed.
President Mahama did not mince words in criticizing the current administration, led by President Akufo Addo, alleging a lack of genuine commitment to eradicating corruption.
He specifically questioned the effectiveness of the Office of the Special Prosecutor, expressing disappointment in its handling of cases involving individuals closely connected to the government.
Citing the Ghana Integrity Initiative’s report, Mahama highlighted the correlation between Ghana’s anti-corruption stagnation and a declining justice system. According to the report, the weakened justice system diminishes the accountability of public officials, creating an environment conducive to corrupt practices.
The former president underscored the dire consequences of corruption on the nation, emphasizing that misused funds, especially during the COVID-19 crisis, could have been more judiciously allocated. Mahama pledged to intensify efforts in the fight against corruption, stating that the government’s lack of action has led to a desensitized population where instances of corruption no longer elicit the shock they once did.
Mahama accused the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) of concocting schemes to embezzle public funds. He specifically called out the handling of the SNL agreement, declaring that, if elected, his government would neither accept nor recognize it. Parliament is currently investigating the agreement, with President Akufo Addo seeking an audit from KPMG. However, Mahama remains resolute in rejecting any agreements tied to the SNL and promises accountability for funds already disbursed.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
