The flag bearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has issued a stern warning to President Akufo-Addo not sign the US$800 million gas processing contract.
Mahama says Ghana risks incurring a judgement debt if the deal is carried without recourse to the constitutionally mandated processes.
He wants the government to suspend the contract if it hadn’t signed yet, advising that the contract is taken to Parliament for approval.
Mahama’s caution comes on the back of an allegation by John Abdulai Jinapor, Minority Spokesperson on Energy, that the presidency is mounting pressure on the CEO of Ghana National Gas to approve the contract without proper legislative scrutiny.
READ ALSO: John Jinapor alleges plans by government to sign $800m contract without parliamentary approval
Speaking to residents of Town Council Line in Accra as part of his campaign tour Saturday, September 28, 2024, John Mahama said Akufo-Addo is in a rush to sign the agreement to fulfill his self-interest, especially because he is exiting office.
The long term implications, he noted, could be dire, warning further that whoever is responsible will be held accountable if power changes hands.
“The NPP administration knows they are going out of office, they are trying to sign an agreement and commit this country to certain projects for which they would want to take advantage. For 8 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.
“And I’m telling them this could lead to financial loss to the state, and it could lead to judgment debts. So if they haven’t signed yet, they shouldn’t sign it. This $800 million gas processing contract must go to Parliament for approval. You cannot hide and sign this contract behind the people of Ghana. We will hold you to account if it results in judgment debts.”
“At this late stage of your government, you should not be busy signing contracts that will bind this nation for many years. Let me warn all involved in this contract that they will be held responsible if the state suffers a financial loss.”
He vowed to counter any actions that don’t serve the best interests of Ghanaians.
“I have promised the people of Ghana not just jobs and prosperity but also accountability. 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.”
