Mahama orders probe into Big Push contracts after Fourth Estate report

President John Dramani Mahama has ordered a full review of allegations arising from an investigative report by The Fourth Estate h into procurement processes under the government’s flagship “Big Push” road infrastructure programme, directing both his office and the Ministry of Roads and Highways to take immediate action.

Speaking during a meeting with Civil Society Organisations at the Jubilee House, the President indicated that although government has only seen portions of the investigation circulating in the media, he has instructed his office to obtain the complete report for a thorough study.

He stressed that the government’s response will be guided by a detailed examination of the findings, alongside an official response from the Roads Ministry.

“I have instructed my office to obtain the full detailed report, and to conduct a study of the various allegations,” President Mahama stated, signalling a cautious but firm approach to the controversy.

The President further directed the Ministry of Roads and Highways to compile and present its response to the issues raised, which will then inform any subsequent government action.

The Fourth Estate investigation has triggered widespread public and political debate after revealing that a significant number of road contracts under the Big Push programme were awarded through sole-sourcing. The report indicated that 81 contracts valued at over GH¢73 billion were awarded within a seven-month period, raising concerns about transparency and value for money.

While acknowledging that sole sourcing is permitted under Ghana’s procurement laws in specific circumstances, President Mahama emphasised that competitive tendering remains the preferred option to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

“We would all agree that open, transparent tenders are always preferable for achieving competitive pricing and value for money,” he noted.

The directive comes at a time of heightened scrutiny from civil society groups and the Minority in Parliament, who have called for full disclosure of all contracts under the programme to promote accountability.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Roads and Highways has previously defended its procurement approach, arguing that a mix of methods, including sole sourcing, was necessary to fast-track critical infrastructure projects and avoid delays.

With the Presidency now set to review both the investigative findings and the Ministry’s response, the outcome is expected to shape government policy direction on procurement practices within the Big Push initiative, which remains a central pillar of the administration’s infrastructure agenda.

By: Bawa Musah