The Acting Chairman of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee, Samuel Atta-Mills, has called for the prosecution of former Defence Ministry Procurement Director, Frank Oliver, over alleged falsification of documents linked to the procurement of six vehicles for election monitoring in 2024.
The call follows a demand by the Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, for Mr. Oliver’s immediate interdiction.
The issue stems from findings by the Auditor-General, who disallowed store receipt vouchers worth GH¢4.8 million in a special audit, citing non-delivery of the vehicles.
Addressing the Committee, Mr. Oliver defended his actions, explaining that the supplier had sought to retrieve the vehicles due to delayed payments by the Ministry.
“The supplier came heavily on us when they had information that we were not going to pay for the vehicles, so we demanded to take them away,” he stated.
He said management was advised to extend the contract as a way of retaining the vehicles until funds became available.
“I advised that if the vehicles are kept and we are not able to pay, it may lead to judgement debt, but it is an option we could explore by extending the contract, so the supplier keeps them until payment is made,” he added.
However, Mr. Atta-Mills rejected the explanation, insisting that the handling of the procurement process was unacceptable.
“Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, I think you should interdict this man for how he carried out his function at the Ministry of Defence,” he stated.
He further indicated plans to escalate the matter for legal action.
“I will have a special report to the Attorney-General for your prosecution,” he added.
The development highlights growing scrutiny over public procurement practices and accountability within government institutions.
