Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has provided a list of 10 parliamentary oversight exposés which have cumulatively saved Ghana a colossal US$1.3 billion (GHS20.2 billion).
From halting dubious transactions to revealing questionable deals, these actions highlight the critical importance of oversight in maintaining transparency and accountability in governance.
Key achievements include preventing excessive spending on the National Cathedral project, saving approximately $400 million, and blocking the sale of SSNIT hotels, which safeguarded $121 million.
Moreover, the exposure of President Akufo-Addo’s luxury jet travels is estimated to have saved around $90 million. This list of financial safeguards demonstrates the vital role of parliamentary scrutiny in protecting public resources and fostering good governance.
National Cathedral: Oversight ensured that despite initial costs exceeding $58 million, no further expenses were incurred, saving roughly $400 million.
SSNIT Hotels: The prevention of the sale of 60% shares in SSNIT hotels to Bryan Acheampong saved Ghana at least $121 million.
Akufo-Addo’s Luxury Jet: Stopping the €20,000-per-hour chartered jet trips potentially saved about $90 million.
Ambulance Spare Parts Scandal: Exposing corruption involving the President’s daughters’ business associates saved $34.9 million.
Transaction Levy Services: Blocking the questionable allocation of e-Transaction Levy services in the 2022 Budget saved Ghana GHS 241.9 million.
Oslo Chancery Scandal: Effective oversight saved Ghana $12.2 million.
West Blue Contract: Uncovering unreasonable demands by Gabby Asare Okyere-Darko resulted in savings of GHS 187.3 million.
Heaven Builders Scandal: Preventing the transfer of valuable airport lands to a private company saved over $250 million.
Apex Pollution Judgment Debt: Identifying a potential financial loss saved Ghana $88 million.
Bulgarian Embassy Demolition: Stopping the loss of prime land valued at $5 million due to unscrupulous political actions.