The Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) has issued a warning to the public against acquiring or leasing railway lands and buildings from individuals lacking official authorisation from the Authority.
This caution comes in response to reports of purported illegal sales and leases of railway properties in various areas of the Western, Western North, and Ashanti Regions by certain individuals, including former employees of the now-defunct Ghana Railway Company Limited (GRCL).
In a statement released on Wednesday, July 29, the GRDA indicated that these transactions were being conducted without the Authority’s consent and were in breach of the laws that govern the management and disposal of railway assets.
The Authority noted that the alleged actions violate the provisions of the Railways Act, 2008 (Act 779), as well as the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921).
The GRDA reported that investigations have revealed attempts by some individuals to backdate transaction documents in an effort to lend an air of legitimacy to the deals.
“The GRDA categorically states that such transactions are unlawful and will not be recognised by the Authority,” it stated.
The Authority emphasised that it will not regularise any lease agreements or transactions involving railway lands and buildings that were executed without the requisite approvals.
It further noted that such dealings also contravene government directives concerning the disposal of public lands and state assets.
Consequently, the GRDA has urged the public to exercise due diligence and confirm with the Authority before engaging in any transactions involving railway properties.
“Any person who engages in such unauthorised transactions does so entirely at his or her own risk,” the Authority cautioned.
The GRDA has stated that it is collaborating with relevant state institutions to investigate the alleged illegal activities and will take legal action against individuals found to be culpable.
It reiterated that only transactions that have been officially approved by the Authority will be deemed valid.
