Minority will escalate GNPC’s ‘improper spending’ in Parliament – Jinapor
Parliamentarian John Jinapor says the Minority in the House will cause findings into how the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) expended monies widely criticised as out of its mandate.
He says his side of the aisle in the bipartisan parliament will raise the issue and “invite the sector Minister, John Peter Amewu to answer questions.”
Mr Jinapor says he finds it unconvincing why the GNPC would allocate almost GH¢2million to selected bodies to undertake activities that aren’t its mandate.
“We must ensure that we do what is right and that the revenues accruing from our petroleum funds are used in a judicious manner,” the Yapei Kusawgu MP told journalists Tuesday.
He said MPs will seek from the Minister if the GNPC’s decision is a government one or whether the company is acting on its own.
The leaked memo
On Monday, an internal Memo from the Board Secretary of GNPC to the Chief Executive was leaked.
The memo detailed the monies approved by the Board to be given to selected bodies.
An amount of GH¢400,000 was allocated to the Dagbon State for the preparation of 2019 Damba Festival.
GH¢500,000 for three years, totalling GH¢1.5million was allocated to the 20th Anniversary of Okyenhene for the environment and greening.
Also, GH¢300,000 was allotted for the organisation of 20th Anniversary celebrations of Okyenhene.
The Ghana Journalists Association was allotted GH¢50,000.
Ghana Boxing Association; $30,000
GH¢120,000 was allocated to the First Lady’s foundation, known as Rebecca Foundation.
And the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) was allocated some GH¢550,000.
Reactions
The revelation has since generated controversy, with many people raising concerns of conflict of interest and frivolous spending.
Auditor General, Daniel Domelevo told Joy FM’s Super Morning Show Tuesday that he won’t accept such money.
Especially for EOCO, he said, since the GNPC Board Chair is under investigation.
The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) Ghana has called on the government to immediately halt and investigate the process; describing the spending by GNPC as wanton.