The Allegations

According to media reports, Wontumi’s company, Hallmark Engineering, received a significant payment from COCOBOD for a road construction project despite a directive to suspend contract payments during the transition period. However, Wontumi maintains that his company was contracted to construct a road and was reimbursed after completion, as per standard government contracting procedures ².

Wontumi’s Explanation

In a statement, Wontumi explained that contractors are expected to pre-finance road construction projects and are reimbursed after completion and assessment by engineers from the Ghana Highways Authority and COCOBOD. He emphasised that the contract specified payment within 28 days after project completion but claimed COCOBOD took nearly three years to pay

Paul Adom-Otchere’s Revelation

Ghanaian media personality and former Board Chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Ltd (GACL), Paul Adom-Otchere, recently revealed details of a conversation he allegedly had with Wontumi. According to Adom-Otchere, Wontumi responded to allegations of receiving GH₵50 million from COCOBOD by stating that COCOBOD does not pay contractors in advance. Wontumi also addressed claims about driving “stolen” cars, saying he bought the cars in Ghana and had informed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) about the sellers

Implications of the Controversy

The controversy surrounding Wontumi’s alleged payment from COCOBOD raises questions about transparency and accountability in government contracting. If true, the allegations could have significant implications for Wontumi and the NPP. However, Wontumi’s denials and explanations have sparked a heated debate, with many calling for further investigation.

Key Points
– Allegations: Wontumi’s company received GH₵50 million from COCOBOD for a road construction project.
– Denials: Wontumi has strongly denied the claims, labeling them as propaganda.
– Government Contracting: Contractors are expected to pre-finance road construction projects and are reimbursed after completion and assessment.
– Investigation: Many are calling for further investigation into the allegations.

The GH₵50 million controversy surrounding Wontumi has sparked intense debate in Ghana. While Wontumi has denied the allegations, the claims raise important questions about transparency and accountability in government contracting. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact Wontumi and the NPP