In recent weeks, a series of secretive decisions and rushed transactions have raised alarms about the conduct of officials in the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government. These actions, which involve hurriedly awarding questionable contracts and demanding full payments before January 7, 2025, paint a picture of desperation and disregard for the country’s welfare. As the administration approaches the end of its term, concerns about transparency and accountability have reached a boiling point.
One of the most troubling examples comes from the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB). Just three days ago, the Board of ADB held a meeting where they hastily approved an electronic servicing agreement worth $750,000 (approximately GHS 12 million). According to reliable sources within ADB, this deal is riddled with issues. The agreement hasn’t even gone through the bank’s audit department, and discussions with the vendor, Virtual Security Africa, are still incomplete. Shockingly, the contract is still in draft form, yet there is immense pressure to make the full payment by December 27, 2024.
Many ADB insiders are baffled by the Board’s decision. Some staff members have expressed their disbelief, calling it a reckless move that defies proper procedures. They are also concerned about the political interference that seems to be driving this deal. Insiders reveal that top executives are under extreme pressure from political figures to fast-track the payment, even though the deal hasn’t been finalized.
The President-elect’s Transition Team has issued clear warnings against such rushed transactions, reminding public officials to exercise caution. This caution is consistent with what the current government, led by the New Patriotic Party (NPP), demanded during the last transition in 2016. Despite these warnings, the outgoing administration seems determined to push through as many of these "midnight contracts" as possible.
The desperation to finalize these deals raises serious questions about their legitimacy. Why is there such a rush to award contracts at the last minute? Why insist on full payment before the new administration takes office? These actions not only raise suspicions of corruption but also undermine public trust in governance.
Beyond the ADB case, reports suggest that this is not an isolated incident. Across various government agencies and institutions, there appears to be a frantic effort to push through questionable contracts before the January 7 handover. These actions have sparked outrage among many Ghanaians who feel betrayed by the very leaders entrusted with the nation’s resources.
The consequences of these rushed decisions could be severe. Public officials who give in to political pressure and authorize such payments may find themselves facing legal and professional repercussions once the new administration takes over. It is a reminder that political loyalty should never come at the expense of integrity and accountability.
In 2016, when the NPP was preparing to assume office, they demanded transparency from the outgoing government and urged officials to avoid last-minute deals. Today, the same party finds itself under scrutiny for engaging in the very practices it once condemned. This hypocrisy further erodes public confidence in leadership and fuels the perception that political power is often misused for personal or partisan gain.
Fortunately, efforts are being made to expose these dubious transactions. Several internal memos detailing these rushed deals have been intercepted and are now being closely scrutinized. These documents provide clear evidence of the questionable decisions being made in the final days of this administration.
The incoming government, led by the President-elect, has pledged to hold those responsible for these actions accountable. Public officials are being warned that they will bear the consequences of their decisions if they succumb to unlawful political pressure. This firm stance is necessary to deter further abuse of power and to send a strong message that Ghana’s resources are not to be squandered for personal or political gain.
As Ghanaians, it is crucial to demand better from our leaders. Governance is not a game, and public office should never be used as a tool for personal enrichment. The nation’s resources belong to every citizen, and those entrusted with managing them must do so with honesty and responsibility.
The issues surrounding these midnight contracts highlight the need for stronger checks and balances in our governance system. Public institutions must be shielded from political interference, and officials must be empowered to act in the nation’s best interest without fear of reprisal.
While the current situation is disheartening, it also serves as a reminder of the power of vigilance. By exposing these questionable practices, citizens and whistleblowers are playing a vital role in safeguarding Ghana’s future. It is a call to action for everyone to remain vigilant and to hold leaders accountable, no matter which political party they represent.
For Ghana to truly move forward, integrity and accountability must be at the heart of governance. The era of midnight contracts and reckless payments must come to an end. Only then can we build a nation that puts its people first, ensuring that every decision made by those in power is for the good of all.
For God and country, Ghana must always come first. Let us remain united in the fight against corruption and demand the transparency and accountability that our beloved nation deserves.
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