'No additional costs were incurred on new headquarters project in 2023' - BoG replies Mahama Ayariga

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has responded to the request on the total cost of its new head office building made by Mahama Ayariga, the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central.

In response to Ayariga's Right to Information request for detailed financial information about the construction project, the BoG indicated that all relevant financial details have been included in its 2023 annual report, which is publicly accessible.

The BoG clarified that no additional costs were incurred on the project in 2023, and therefore, there is no further information available to share with the lawmaker.

The BoG explained that the choice to keep the complete financial breakdown confidential is based on procedural protocols that require such information to be obtained through the PPA.

In a letter to the lawmaker, the BoG stressed that all procurement processes and financial transactions related to the new head office have been carried out in accordance with established regulatory frameworks and oversight mechanisms.

"With the approval of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), the BoG awarded a contract for the construction of a bank duty post at the site of the old BoG clinic. The BoG followed the necessary procurement procedures as outlined in the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663) as amended by the Public Procurement Amendment Act, 2016 (Act 914) in 2022. For the cost and specifics of the construction, please contact the PPA," a portion of the letter read.

Mahama Ayariga, who has been vocal about the importance of transparency in government projects, expressed his dissatisfaction with the BoG's response. He argues that as a public institution, the BoG is obligated to provide clear and detailed information about the expenses related to the new head office.

Mahama Ayariga maintains that transparency is essential to ensure accountability and public trust in the management of national resources.

NAY/OGB