In a recent development, Eric Adjei, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Deputy Director of Communications for the Bono Region, has leveled serious accusations against the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) concerning the construction of the new Bank of Ghana (BoG) headquarters. Adjei claimed that members of the NPP received financial inducements from the Central Bank to advocate for the construction of the new headquarters.
During an interview on Peace FM's Kokroko show, Mr. Adjei alleged that NPP communicators were paid an amount of GHS1000 to promote the necessity of the new BoG headquarters among the Ghanaian population. He expressed concerns that such actions could erode the ethical aspects of the party's conduct.
Adjei specifically pointed out an individual named Opata, who reportedly approached NPP communicators with the alleged financial incentive. His statement suggests that this form of financial motivation for promoting the new headquarters goes against the principles of transparency and impartiality that should be maintained by a financial institution like the Bank of Ghana.
Responding to the allegations, the Central Bank of Ghana released a press statement justifying the decision to invest $250 million in constructing a new headquarters amidst an economic crisis. The statement cited concerns about seismic activity and structural integrity as the driving factors behind the decision. The current BoG building, constructed in the 1960s, is deemed structurally inadequate to withstand seismic events.
The ongoing construction project, situated in Ridge adjacent to the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, Ridge, is reported to be approximately 50% completed and has been awarded to De Simone Limited.
These allegations of bribery come in the wake of criticisms from the Minority in Parliament, particularly from Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader. He labeled the Central Bank as insensitive over its decision to invest in the new headquarters amidst economic challenges.
The situation surrounding the construction of the new Bank of Ghana headquarters continues to draw attention and debate, shedding light on the complex relationship between politics, financial institutions, and infrastructure development in the country. As the investigation unfolds, Ghanaians are keenly observing how these allegations and justifications will impact the credibility of both political and financial entities involved.
