Accra, Ghana – Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has officially petitioned the Attorney General and Minister for Justice to launch a criminal investigation into the management of a $13 million contract for the Ghana Cybersecurity Authority’s permanent headquarters. The project, currently stalled at the substructure stage, has already incurred significant state expenditure under questionable circumstances, with the Minister citing a disproportionate outlay compared to visible progress.
Contractual Discrepancies and Unaccounted Funds
The controversy centers on substantial payments made to contractors Rayzone Group Limited and Mendanha & Sousa. Reports indicate that the two firms are demanding an additional $4 million to complete foundation work, despite having allegedly already received $3.4 million for this same phase. This situation has raised serious concerns about financial mismanagement and potential overpayment.
Further compounding the issue, an additional $10 million has reportedly been paid for specialized software intended for the Cybersecurity Authority. However, this software has not yet been delivered to the state, leaving officials questioning the validity and execution of this separate transaction.
Minister’s Concerns and Public Accounts Committee Scrutiny
Speaking to reporters after a session with the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Parliament House, a visibly frustrated Minister George expressed bewilderment at the financial disbursements made by the previous administration of the authority. He highlighted the stark contrast between the funds expended and the minimal physical progress on the building project.
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