A consortium of road contractors in Ghana has vehemently denied allegations of corruption in the award of road contracts, as claimed by former Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) Board Chairman, Professor Stephen Adei. In response to the claims that contracts were secured by paying a substantial upfront fee, the Ministry of Roads and Highways has requested the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
The contractors, representing a diverse group of industry players, have welcomed the investigation, asserting that they have not encountered any instances of bribery in the road contract allocation process. They emphasize that the process is transparent and meticulously regulated, making it challenging for corrupt practices to permeate the system.
The consortium of contractors comprises respected entities such as 1st Sky Ltd, Maripoma Ent Ltd, Justimoh Construction Ltd, Resource Access Ltd, Kasmo Co Ltd, Oswald Investment Ltd, Ussuya Gh Ltd, Volta Impex Ltd, and Limerica Gh Ltd. Other members include Doncross Ltd, Joshop Gh Ltd, General Construction Ltd, Hardwick Ltd, Kofi Job Construction, Menphis Construction Ltd, Mawums Ltd, Kingspock Ltd, Kingdowsco Co Ltd, Nagfairmont Gh Ltd, and New Modern World Ltd.
In a joint statement, the contractors acknowledged the leadership of Minister Kwasi Amoako-Attah for fostering transparency and professionalism in the roads construction sector. They commended the minister for enhancing the capacity of local contractors to meet international standards, thereby ensuring self-reliance and bolstering the nation’s independence.
While expressing their surprise at the allegations, the group of contractors pledged their full support to any investigative body working to clarify the situation. They stand ready to assist EOCO in its inquiries, should the need arise.
This development underscores the commitment of Ghana’s road contractors to upholding the integrity of the road contract award process. Their collective dedication to transparency and ethical practices in the industry is a positive sign for the nation’s infrastructure development.
The allegations made by Professor Stephen Adei, a former Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), have stirred significant debate in the country. Adei claimed that individuals seeking road contracts were asked to pay a significant upfront fee of GH¢1 million to secure the contracts.
Ghana’s road infrastructure development plays a pivotal role in the nation’s progress. The swift response by the Ministry of Roads and Highways, as well as the willingness of the consortium of road contractors to cooperate in the investigation, indicates a collective commitment to ensuring that the infrastructure development sector remains free from corruption.
As the investigation unfolds, it is expected that the truth will be unveiled, and any wrongdoing will be appropriately addressed. This commitment to transparency and accountability is a positive step towards building a stronger and more reliable infrastructure in Ghana.
Source: [Daily Graphic]
