Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has strongly denied allegations that he approved a $1.7 million single-source procurement contract.
The Minister dismissed the claims as baseless and misleading, urging the public to disregard them.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, March 22, Dr. Forson made it clear that since assuming office, he has not approved any procurement contracts. He reiterated his commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible economic management, emphasizing that such accusations are entirely false.
“My attention has been drawn to yet another baseless and misleading claim circulating about an alleged $1.7 million single-source procurement contract approved by me. This claim is completely false and should be disregarded.”
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson
Dr. Forson further clarified that his primary focus remains on ensuring financial discipline and prudent economic management. He assured Ghanaians that he would continue to serve with integrity and would not engage in any actions that undermine public trust.
Commitment to Transparency
Since his appointment as Finance Minister, Dr. Forson has consistently emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. His statement reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring that all financial dealings under his leadership adhere to due process and ethical standards.
By explicitly stating that he has not approved any procurement contracts, Dr. Forson sought to counter any potential misinformation aimed at tarnishing his reputation. He stressed that his administration remains focused on addressing Ghana’s economic challenges through prudent fiscal policies.
The allegations against the Finance Minister have sparked discussions in political and economic circles. Some opposition figures and critics have called for further scrutiny, while others view the claims as an attempt to discredit the Minister’s efforts in managing the country’s finances.
Supporters of Dr. Forson argue that such accusations are politically motivated and intended to create unnecessary controversy. They emphasize his track record of advocating for fiscal responsibility and economic reforms.
Meanwhile, governance experts have urged the public to verify information before spreading unsubstantiated claims. They warn that misinformation can undermine confidence in key government institutions and distract from pressing economic issues.
The Bigger Picture: Procurement Transparency in Ghana
The allegations against Dr. Forson also bring attention to the broader issue of procurement transparency in Ghana. Over the years, concerns have been raised about single-source contracts and their implications for financial accountability.
The Public Procurement Act of Ghana outlines clear guidelines for awarding contracts, emphasizing competitive bidding to ensure value for money. Single-source procurement, while permitted under certain conditions, often attracts scrutiny due to the potential for abuse.
Dr. Forson’s strong denial aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen procurement processes in Ghana. His statement serves as a reminder that government officials must remain vigilant in upholding financial integrity and preventing corruption.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson’s firm stance on transparency and accountability underscores his commitment to responsible economic management.
As discussions around the allegation continue, it remains essential for stakeholders to prioritize facts over speculation. The focus should be on ensuring that Ghana’s financial resources are managed efficiently and in the best interest of the country.
READ ALSO: Galamsey Crisis: Aboagye Challenges NDC’s Commitment
