Walewale MP accuses John Jinapor of dubious procurement amid energy sector concerns

Walewale MP Tia Abdul-Kabiru Mahama has raised concerns about government procurement in the energy sector. He accused Energy Minister John Jinapor of bypassing established procedures for contract awards.

His comments came after the Ministry requested emergency funding to address fuel shortages. These shortages have caused widespread concern among the public.

While Mr. Mahama acknowledged the urgency, he questioned the Minister's methods for resolving the crisis. In an interview with Channel One TV on May 17, he specifically accused Mr. Jinapor of using the situation to justify non-competitive practices.

He claimed that this includes sole-sourcing contracts, which avoids standard procurement protocols. “Since he took office, it has been one alarm after another,” Mr. Mahama alleged.

He further stated that over GH₵200 million worth of contracts were awarded through sole-sourcing without following proper procedures. “My intelligence suggests that over GH₵200 million has been sole-sourced improperly,” he said.

Mr. Mahama emphasized the need for compliance with procurement laws in a financially strained sector. He argued that the Minister’s approach is flawed and could undermine public confidence in managing the energy crisis.

“He must fix it and reassure Ghanaians instead of scaremongering,” he added.