Adu Boahen pockets GH¢49.1m from Ghana Water company contract?

Dr. Dominic Ayine is Ghana’s Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. He recently announced new criminal allegations against Kwabena Adu Boahene. Adu Boahene is the former Director of the National Signals Bureau. These allegations add to an ongoing trial about stealing GH¢49.1 million in public funds.

On Wednesday, Dr. Ayine spoke to journalists in Accra. He revealed that investigations found a major fraud scheme involving Adu Boahene and the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL). Over GH¢60 million was paid to his private firm for services not provided.

The GWCL had an agreement with the now-defunct Bureau of National Communications (BNC). They were supposed to receive secured internet services for a bi-weekly fee of GH¢650,000. However, Adu Boahene allegedly redirected payments meant for BNC into his own company’s account.

“Every month, Mr. Adu Boahene’s company received GH¢1.3 million from Ghana Water,” Dr. Ayine stated. “He claimed to provide internet services through a government entity.” Investigations show he received over GH¢60 million through this fraudulent scheme.

Dr. Ayine noted that this new discovery delayed filing charges against Adu Boahene. Investigators needed to determine if it was separate from the earlier theft case of GH¢49.1 million. “We are close to completing the docket on that investigation,” he added.

Adu Boahene faces multiple charges including stealing and money laundering. His wife, Angela Adjei-Boateng, and others are also on trial for their involvement.

Dr. Ayine expressed confidence in their prosecution case, citing strong evidence like bank records and witness testimonies. “I expect convictions on most, if not all, charges,” he declared.

He addressed criticism from his previous press briefing in March as well. Some accused him of pre-judging the accused or misleading the public. He emphasized that public officials must act transparently and be accountable.

“President John Dramani Mahama is fully briefed on these matters,” he said firmly.

Dr. Ayine also mentioned progress in other corruption investigations like the Skytrain project and procurement irregularities related to school Wi-Fi and the National Cathedral project.

Charges in some cases may come as early as next week, he announced.

He denied recent social media claims about corruption regarding campaign support he received during elections. He confirmed receiving GH¢200,000 in donations but insisted they were lawful and did not influence his actions as Attorney-General.

“The President would not have appointed me if he doubted my integrity,” he stated confidently.

The trial of Kwabena Adu Boahene and his co-accused continues at the High Court in Accra.