Former President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern warning to the Akufo-Addo-led government over plans to sign a new $800 million gas contract before leaving office, cautioning that it could lead to significant financial losses and potential judgment debt for the country.
Speaking at a recent event, Mahama, who is also the National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer for the 2024 elections, accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration of rushing to commit the nation to expensive projects as their term nears its end.
He particularly criticized the government’s intent to initiate a second gas stream project, which he believes is unnecessary at this time due to insufficient gas supply.
“Professor Mills and I, during our tenure in government, secured financing from China to build the first stream of the Atuabo gas project. The design of the project allowed for an additional gas stream when we could secure more gas. However, for eight years, this government has not invested in increasing gas production,” Mahama said.
He raised concerns that the NPP government is now hastily moving forward with the second phase of the project, despite the lack of sufficient gas supply to justify such an expansion.
Former President Mahama warned that this could result in financial losses for Ghana and expose the country to judgment debt if the project is not handled transparently and with proper legislative oversight.
“This $800 million contract must go to parliament for approval. You cannot hide and sign a contract like this behind the people of Ghana,” Mahama stressed, urging the government to halt any further action on the agreement if it has not already been signed.
He emphasized that his party would hold the current administration accountable if their actions led to financial burdens for the state.
The former president’s remarks come as the country prepares for the 2024 general elections, with the NDC and NPP set to compete for leadership. Mahama’s comments reflect growing concerns among the opposition over governance and transparency in key national projects, particularly as the government nears the end of its term.
The NPP government has not yet responded to the accusations, but the issue is likely to ignite further debate as the nation moves closer to election day.
