Renowned investigative journalist and Nieman Fellow, Manasseh Azure Awuni has raised concerns over the award of the contract for the introduction of 5G technology in Ghana through a neutral, wireless open-access network.
The former Editor in Chief of the Fourth Estate, in a statement called on Ghanaian journalists to seek clarity on the deal from the Minister for Communications and Member of Parliament for Ablekuma West Constituency, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful.
“The Minister for Communications, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, will address the media today. Kindly demand answers on this deal. President Akufo-Akufo-Addo “granted Executive Approval on 22nd August 2023 for the introduction of 5G through the establishment of a neutral, wireless open access network to promote a vibrant telecom market in Ghana”.
Manasseh Azure Awuni, Nieman Fellow and Ace Investigative Journalist
Mr Awuni, in urging journalists to demand accountability from the Communications Minister, particularly raised concerns over the selection process for the company awarded the contract to establish the 5G network.
He argued that the company in question was formed less than a week before receiving President Akufo-Addo’s approval, questioning the legitimacy and transparency of the process, as well as the company’s capability to manage such a significant project.
Among several questions, the Ace Investigative Journalist questioned why the contract was awarded to a single company without an open auction, stating that typically, major contracts of such nature are subject to a competitive bidding process to ensure the best value and performance standards.
He emphasized that the absence of such a process raises concerns about favouritism and lack of transparency in the award of the contract.
The Track Record of the Company
Furthermore, Mr Awuni questioned the track record of a company that was formed less than a week before receiving President Akufo-Addo’s approval, arguing that given the complexity and importance of implementing 5G technology, the selected company’s experience and capabilities are crucial factors.
He added that the media and the general public deserve to know the qualifications and background of the company, which was awarded the contract to implement the 5G technology.
Additionally, the Nieman Fellow, Manasseh Azure Awuni questioned the relationship between the newly formed company and Smart Infraco.
He argued that Smart Infraco is a known entity in the telecom infrastructure sector, and any connections between it and the awarded company could indicate potential conflicts of interest or underlying motives behind the contract award.
Mr Awuni concluded by emphasizing the need for Ghanaian journalists to thoroughly demand clear and detailed answers from the Communications Minister, Honorable Ursula Owusu-Ekuful.
He emphasized that it is essential for the media to uphold its role as a watchdog, ensuring that government actions are transparent and in the best interest of the public.
Meanwhile, Honorable Samuel Nartey George, Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, has called for a calm and measured approach to the ongoing debate surrounding the implementation of 5G technology in Ghana.
The Deputy Ranking Member on the Parliamentary Committee on Communications emphasized the need for accurate information and a thorough understanding of the subject to guide the country towards informed decisions on the controversial contract.
Honourable George, particularly expressed concern over the significant amount of information, misinformation, conjecture, and assumptions circulating about 5G technology.
He noted that much of the public discourse has been fueled by individuals who may not fully understand the complexities of the 5G technology and its implications for the sector, adding that when the “’dust’ subside, and then we can interrogate the real issues properly”.
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