John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has issued a stern warning to President Akufo-Addo, cautioning him against signing an $800 million gas processing contract.
Mahama’s warning comes amidst allegations by Minority Spokesperson on Energy, John Jinapor, that the CEO of Ghana National Gas is being pressured by the presidency to approve the contract without proper legislative scrutiny.
During a community engagement at Town Council Line in the Greater Accra Region on Saturday, September 28, Mahama emphasized the critical importance of presenting the contract to Parliament for approval.
He expressed concerns that the government’s haste to sign the deal is driven by self-interest, particularly as they near the end of their term in office.
Mahama underscored the long-term implications of the contract, which could potentially bind the country for years.
He cautioned that those responsible for signing the contract without proper oversight would be held accountable if the state suffers financial losses.
“The NPP administration knows they are going out of office, and they are trying to sign an agreement and commit this country to certain projects for which they would want to take advantage,” Mahama stated. “For eight years, this government has not invested in producing more gas.
Even though there isn’t enough gas in sight, they are in a hurry to commit to this country for a second gas stream before they leave office.”
Mahama warned that the contract could lead to financial loss to the state and potentially result in judgment debts.
He urged the government to refrain from signing the contract until it has been thoroughly vetted by Parliament.
“At this late stage of your government, you should not be busy signing contracts that will bind this nation for many years,” Mahama emphasized. “Let me warn all involved in this contract that they will be held responsible if the state suffers a financial loss.”
Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to accountability and transparency, vowing to counter any actions that do not serve the best interests of Ghanaians.
He promised that under his presidency, acts that are detrimental to the country would not be allowed to proceed.
“I have promised the people of Ghana not just jobs and prosperity but also accountability,” Mahama declared. “You can be assured that under the Mahama presidency, acts that are not in the interest of the good people of this country will not be allowed to proceed.”
As Ghana prepares for the upcoming elections, Mahama’s warning highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in governance. The NDC flagbearer’s stance on the gas processing contract has sparked intense debate, with many calling for greater scrutiny of the deal.
The outcome of this development remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Mahama’s warning has sounded a alarm, emphasizing the need for caution and responsible decision-making in the country’s best interest.
