An investigation by The Fourth Estate has revealed that detailed information on 81 sole-sourced road contracts under the government’s “Big Push” infrastructure programme was removed from the official website of the Ministry of Roads and Highways shortly after the outlet published its exposé.
According to the report, the contracts—valued at more than GHS 73 billion—were awarded through sole sourcing rather than competitive tendering, raising concerns about transparency, value for money, and adherence to public procurement laws.
The investigation triggered swift reactions at the highest level of government, with President John Dramani Mahama directing that a full probe be conducted into the matter. The Presidency is seeking to establish whether due process was followed in the award of the contracts and whether any irregularities occurred.
The removal of the contract details from the Ministry’s website has further heightened public scrutiny, with governance analysts and civil society organisations questioning the timing of the action and its implications for accountability.
In response to the allegations, the Roads and Highways Minister has mounted a defence of the programme, insisting that the contract awards were undertaken within the legal framework and were necessary to fast-track critical infrastructure development across the country.
The “Big Push” initiative is a flagship government programme aimed at accelerating road construction and rehabilitation nationwide to stimulate economic growth and improve connectivity.
However, the latest revelations have intensified debate over procurement practices within the sector, with stakeholders calling for greater transparency and stricter oversight in the award and management of public contracts.
The outcome of the President’s directive for a probe is expected to shape public confidence in the programme and determine whether any sanctions or policy reforms will follow.