I will abolish sole-sourcing from government procurement - Alan Kyerematen vows

Alan John Kwadwo Kyerematen, Presidential Candidate for the Alliance for Revolutionary Change (ARC) and Founder of the Movement for Change (M4C), has pledged to tackle corruption in Ghana by abolishing the practice of sole-sourcing in government procurement.

Speaking during an interview with X (formerly known as Twitter) influencer KalyJay on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, Mr. Kyerematen expressed concern about the growing corruption linked to the sole sourcing of goods and services.

Mr. Kyerematen described sole-sourcing as a "cash cow" for politicians and public officials, calling it a significant drain on state resources.

He vowed to abolish this practice if elected President, advocating instead for competitive procurement processes that would protect local industry interests.

He highlighted that the existing procurement system has enabled certain individuals, with minimal business experience, to amass wealth rapidly after assuming public office.

This trend, he argued, is a result of the government's failure to confront corruption directly.

He pointed out the lack of comprehensive legislation in Ghana to address corruption tied to lifestyle discrepancies, which has allowed some to enrich themselves at the expense of ordinary citizens.

"Corruption has created an environment that benefits 'sole-sourcing entrepreneurs' in the country," he lamented.

"If I am elected in the December 7, 2024, general elections, I will ensure the elimination of sole-sourcing in procurement," he declared.

As part of his anti-corruption strategy, Mr. Kyerematen also proposed the establishment of a Corruption Czar — an independent office with the power to investigate and prosecute any public official, including the President, if found guilty of corruption.

These initiatives, he noted, are detailed on page 43 of his Great Transformation Plan (GTP), a blueprint for his vision of governance and development for Ghana.