President John Dramani Mahama has directed his office to obtain and review the full investigative report by The Fourth Estate concerning procurement practices under the government’s “Big Push” road infrastructure programme.
The directive follows allegations raised in the report, which questioned the extensive use of sole-sourcing in the award of contracts and flagged concerns over possible cost inflation.
According to the investigation, the Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, is alleged to have overseen the award of 81 sole-sourced contracts valued at more than GH¢73 billion within a seven-month period.
Speaking during an engagement with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), President Mahama emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in public procurement processes. He noted that while sole sourcing is permitted under certain conditions by law, competitive and open tendering remains the preferred approach to ensure value for money.
The President indicated that although portions of the report have already circulated in the media, a comprehensive review is necessary to fully assess the claims.
He also directed the Ministry of Roads and Highways to submit a detailed response addressing the allegations, which will guide the government’s next steps.
Mahama reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding transparency and ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly.
