Ghana’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has officially summoned former Health Minister Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye to appear before the committee to provide explanations regarding a controversial GH¢20 million payment tied to the planned Parliamentary Service Hospital. The project, which was meant to provide modern healthcare services for parliamentarians and staff, has yet to begin construction, raising serious questions about accountability and the use of public funds.
Reports indicate that the GH¢20 million mobilisation fee was disbursed on December 31, 2024, even though no visible work had started on the hospital. PAC is now seeking detailed clarification on why such a significant sum was paid in advance and why progress on the project remains stalled more than a year later.
In addition to Dr. Okoe-Boye, the committee has summoned other key officials involved in the transaction, including the former administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund and the accountant responsible for the disbursement. PAC intends to examine the circumstances surrounding the payment, compliance with financial protocols, and whether proper procedures were followed.
The committee’s actions highlight growing concerns about transparency in government projects and the need for stricter oversight of public funds. Lawmakers have emphasized that accountability is non-negotiable, particularly when large sums of money are released without corresponding work or tangible results.
The summons has sparked widespread attention, with citizens, civil society groups, and the media closely monitoring developments. As Dr. Okoe-Boye prepares to face PAC, many Ghanaians are watching to see whether he will provide satisfactory explanations or if further investigations and potential sanctions could follow. This high-profile case underscores the parliament’s determination to hold officials accountable and ensure prudent management of taxpayer resources.
