On Wednesday, September 16, Edem Senanu spoke on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show during the Corruption Watch segment, demanding that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) launch an investigation into alleged breaches of procurement laws surrounding the construction of multi‑million‑cedi astroturf projects nationwide.
Senanu outlined three measures he believes should be pursued to address concerns raised by the projects. He first urged the OSP to investigate procurement breaches and hold accountable those who have violated procurement laws. He then called for an inquiry into possible conflict‑of‑interest issues, especially where Members of Parliament who also serve as ministers are involved in supporting development projects. “It’s not a bad thing to support projects, but when you hold certain positions, how you go about it, there must be clear guidance on that,” he said.
Senanu’s third recommendation targeted the Public Procurement Authority (PPA), urging it to strengthen its due‑diligence procedures. He said the PPA should verify whether a contract has already been awarded or work has already begun before processing procurement documents, to prevent the use of procurement procedures retrospectively to regularise projects that have already started.
The call comes after an investigation found that two senior officers who served under former President Akufo‑Addo’s administration, former Energy Minister John Peter Amewu and former Ghana Gas Communications Director Ernest Owusu Bempah, are at the centre of an ownership dispute involving sports facilities in Hohoe and Agogo respectively. The facilities were constructed largely with public funds valued at more than GH¢17 million.
Corruption Watch, which began its investigative series in February 2025, has examined 169 astroturf and sports infrastructure projects across Ghana, representing public investments estimated to exceed GH¢1 billion. This edition focuses on procurement irregularities, abuse of office and conflict of interest.
Senanu’s remarks underscore the need for transparent procurement processes and clear rules governing public officials’ involvement in development projects. The OSP and PPA are expected to respond to the call for investigations in the coming days.
