In a dramatic twist during the final days of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that a whopping GHS60 million has been transferred to the Office of the President for unspecified “Special Operations.”
The transaction, which is said to have occurred on December 23, 2024, at about 4:38 PM, has sparked widespread criticisms, furthering demands for accountability.
Ablakwa, who shared the details on his social media, described the transfer as “profligate” and questioned the prioritization of such a hefty amount for unclear purposes at the twilight of the Akufo-Addo administration’s tenure. He pointed out the glaring neglect of critical sectors such as WAEC, CHASS, CETAG, the Free SHS Secretariat, IPPs, and NaBCo, all of which are struggling with unpaid arrears.
Misplaced Priorities or Strategic Misstep?
The revelation has raised eyebrows, with many wondering why “Special Operations” would take precedence over pressing financial obligations that directly impact education, youth employment, and power supply, among others.
Ablakwa labeled the move as a deliberate attempt to drain national coffers ahead of the Mahama administration’s takeover, branding it as an example of reckless governance.
“Why should ‘Special Operations’ be prioritized in the dying days of this government while critical arrears remain unpaid?” Ablakwa asked.
Call for Legislative Reform
The MP for North Tongu used the opportunity to further deepen his call for urgent legislative reform to curb excessive spending, dubious contracts, and mass recruitments during government transitions. According to him, such practices undermine good governance and set dangerous precedents.
“It is most depressing that the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government seems hell-bent on emptying the national coffers on extremely questionable and wasteful expenditures,” he stated.
Growing Public Concern
The revelation has ignited a firestorm of debate on social media, with citizens and civil society groups demanding transparency and a detailed explanation of the GHS60 million expenditure. Some have even called for an independent investigation into the transaction to ensure that public funds are not being misused.
As the clock ticks toward the January 7, 2025 handover, all eyes are now on the outgoing Akufo-Addo administration to address these allegations and justify its spending decisions during this critical transition period.
This development adds to the mounting scrutiny of the Akufo-Addo presidency’s financial dealings, further intensifying the public’s call for accountability and reform.
Source: ghananewsonline