The multiple government procurement breaches and expose by MP for North Tongu, Hon Okudzeto Ablakwa has led CHRAJ to recommend investigation to the Auditor -General to conduct a forensic investigation into the construction of the controversial National cathedral project.
The honorable MP lodged a complaint at to the CHRAJ office prompting the organization to compiled reports leading to the recommendation of investigation by the Auditor-General.
Hon Okudzeto Ablakwa petitioned the organization concerning discrepancies and alleged financial misappropriation by the directors and trustees of the National Cathedral. According to the MP, the secretariat has transferred to JNS Talent Centre Limited some GHC2.6million
In addition, an amount of GHC225,962,500.00 had also been spent on site preparation, contractor mobilization, fundraising, consultancy fees etc. Inspite of the huge amount spent, the project has not seen much progress.
On Monday November 25, CHRAJ released its findings after months of investigations. The commission directed the auditor general to ascertain whether the funds were indeed allocated for the project or otherwise.
The report from CHRAJ indicated “Accordingly, the commission recommends that the auditor general should conduct an audit of the construction of the national cathedral program from its inception to date to ascertain whether monies released for its construction have been properly utilized”.
The commission also stated breaches in the procurement law and stated :”Having found that the contract awarded to Ribade Company Ltd is void ab nitio for being entered into contrary to the mandatory provisions of the procurement Act, Act 663 as amended by Act 914. The Commission also recommends that the Board of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) should intervene to cancel the contract”
Concerning the board of trustees of the project who were responsible for awarding the contract to Ribade Company Limited, the report stated a likely prosecution if found culpable as a result of several breaches of procurement laws which could potentially damage the reputation of the country.
