In the ongoing battle against state capture and rampant corruption, SOA OVERSIGHT has been at the forefront, unearthing financial misdeeds and holding those in power accountable. Through diligent parliamentary oversight, these efforts have cumulatively saved Ghana an impressive US$1.3 billion (GHS20.2 billion). Here, we present the top ten exposés that have significantly contributed to this monumental achievement.
1. National Cathedral Project
The controversial National Cathedral project was poised to cost Ghana over US$450 million. Despite the unlawful expenditure of over US$58 million, SOA OVERSIGHT’s exposé halted further spending, saving Ghana approximately US$400 million by stopping what was deemed an unprecedented financial heist.
2. SSNIT Hotels
The planned sale of 60% shares in SSNIT’s hotels to Bryan Acheampong was blocked, thanks to vigilant oversight. This intervention preserved at least US$121 million, which was the independent market valuation of the shares.
3. Akufo-Addo’s Sky Bath
President Akufo-Addo’s use of a €20,000-per-hour chartered luxury jet sparked outrage. Through conservative analysis and subsequent actions to halt this profligate spending, Ghana was saved about US$90 million.
4. Ambulance Spare Parts Scandal
An ongoing investigation involving business partners of President Akufo-Addo’s daughters revealed potential savings of US$34.9 million by curbing unnecessary and inflated costs in ambulance spare parts procurement.
5. Transaction Levy Services
The dubious e-Transaction Levy Services allocation in the 2022 Budget was thwarted, saving Ghana GHS241.9 million. This action prevented a significant financial burden on the nation.
6. Oslo Chancery Scandal
An exposé on the planned purchase of a chancery in Oslo uncovered excessive spending, saving Ghana US$12.2 million by avoiding an overvalued transaction.
7. West Blue/Gabby Asare Okyere-Darko
Unconscionable demands on the Finance Ministry by West Blue and Gabby Asare Okyere-Darko were exposed, leading to savings of GHS187.3 million for Ghana.
8. The Heaven Scandal
A vigilant investigation saved prime airport lands from being handed over to Heaven Builders Limited under an opaque deal. Experts estimate this saved Ghana over US$250 million.
9. Apex Pollution Judgment Debt Exposé
Through diligent oversight, an exposé on a pollution judgment debt saved Ghana US$88 million, highlighting the importance of accountability in environmental and financial governance.
10. Bulgarian Embassy Demolition Exposé
An exposé on the demolition of the Bulgarian Embassy in Ghana revealed a plot to seize prime land valued at US$5 million. This intervention safeguarded both Ghanaian and Bulgarian interests.
Conclusion
These top ten parliamentary oversight exposés underscore the critical role of accountability and transparency in governance. Through relentless efforts, SOA OVERSIGHT has not only prevented significant financial losses but also reinforced the fight against state capture and corruption. As Ghana continues to develop, such vigilant oversight remains indispensable in ensuring the nation’s resources are used judiciously for the benefit of all.
