The Salaga Road contract controversy has ignited a firestorm of criticism, highlighting systemic challenges in Ghana’s governance and public procurement processes. Former Deputy Upper West Regional Minister, Mr. Abu Kasangbata, has joined the growing chorus demanding a forensic audit into the $30 million road project, which many have described as emblematic of mismanagement, negligence, and corruption.
In a statement shared with the Ghana News Agency, Mr. Kasangbata expressed grave concerns about the state of governance within the Ministry of Roads and its affiliated agencies. He pointed to the Salaga Road contract as a glaring example of how misuse of public funds undermines national development. “How can a government mismanage state resources to the tune of $30 million without following proper procurement procedures or securing funding guarantees?” he questioned, describing the situation as symptomatic of a “broken and unaccountable system.”
Allegations of Corruption and Negligence
The controversy surrounding the Salaga Road project has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including civil society organizations and political figures. Mr. Kwame Agbodza, speaking during the Government Accountability Series, labeled the contract as “shocking and unjustifiable.” He alleged that the deal lacked technical justification and financial backing, further asserting that it was driven by “deliberate negligence and personal interest, not national priority.”
Mr. Agbodza’s remarks underscore the broader implications of this case, emphasizing that it is not merely a matter of poor planning but an act of “robbing the taxpayer under the guise of development.” He pledged that no amount of political lobbying or backdoor negotiations would deter efforts to hold those responsible accountable. “We are not here to play politics; we are here to protect public funds,” he stated firmly.
Civil Society’s Call for Reform
Civil society organizations have rallied behind calls for a comprehensive audit of all road contracts signed between 2017 and 2024. They argue that the Salaga Road contract exposes a troubling pattern of inflated and politically motivated deals that lack engineering oversight and feasibility assessments. Experts and watchdog groups have raised concerns about fundamental design flaws in the project, including the absence of basic infrastructure elements like drainage systems.
This growing demand for accountability has placed both current and former officials under intense public scrutiny. Former Roads Minister Francis Asenso-Boakye has defended the deal, accusing the current administration of politicizing infrastructural development. However, these defenses have done little to quell public outrage.
A Watershed Moment for Accountability
As pressure mounts, many see this controversy as a potential turning point in Ghana’s battle against procurement abuse, elite impunity, and institutional failure. Mr. Kasangbata emphasized that failure to hold those responsible accountable would deepen public cynicism and erode confidence in democratic governance. “Those involved must be punished. This must be a turning point. Ghana deserves better,” he stated.
The Salaga Road saga is not just about one contract; it is a reflection of systemic issues that demand structural and radical reforms. Mr. Kasangbata has called for strict sanctions against all culpable public officials—whether political appointees, civil servants, or technical advisors—to restore public trust in governance.
The Path Forward
The demand for justice in the Salaga Road controversy is louder than ever, with citizens closely watching how the government addresses this issue. Beyond punitive measures, this case highlights the urgent need for reforms in procurement practices, transparency, and accountability mechanisms within Ghana’s public sector.
If handled correctly, this controversy could serve as a watershed moment in Ghana’s quest for good governance and sustainable development. However, if left unaddressed, it risks deepening public disillusionment and undermining democratic institutions.
The Salaga Road contract is more than a financial scandal—it is a test of Ghana’s commitment to justice, accountability, and progress. As Mr. Kasangbata aptly stated, “Ghana deserves better.”
-GNA
Curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
