Mahama Orders Probes into Past Deals and African Games Saga

President John Dramani Mahama's administration is actively pursuing investigations into several high-profile cases of alleged corruption and financial mismanagement. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote accountability and restore public trust in governance, marking a significant focus during his first 120 days in office.
In a national address on May 7, 2025, President Mahama outlined the key areas under scrutiny. The Power Distribution Services (PDS) agreement with the Electricity Company of Ghana, which faced criticism and eventual abrogation by the previous NPP administration, is under review by the Minister of Energy and Green Transition. Mahama stated, "The PDS scandal is under review. Those responsible will face justice.”
Investigations also extend to the use of COVID-19 funds, the National Cathedral project, and the collapse of several indigenous banks. The Minister for Health is reviewing the Auditor-General’s report on COVID-19 spending, including the Sputnik-V vaccine procurement scandal. The Minister for Finance has initiated a full-scale inquiry into the collapse of local banks and financial institutions, promising to unearth facts and punish culprits.
Regarding the National Cathedral project, audit firm Deloitte & Touche has been contracted to conduct an independent audit, with the final report expected by the end of May 2025.
The administration has also commenced investigations into the funds spent during the 13th African Games hosted in Ghana. Several officials involved have been invited for questioning regarding spending and contract-related concerns. President Mahama assured the public that those implicated will be dealt with accordingly.
Furthermore, the Attorney General has already filed charges against a former official of the National Sports Authority in connection with alleged financial irregularities. As of April 30, 2025, 11 charges were filed against a former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau and other accomplices for alleged financial offenses.
Upcoming charges are also anticipated in connection with the Accra SkyTrain deal and the National Service Scheme ghost names scandal. Investigations are ongoing, and the Attorney General is preparing to press charges.
President Mahama emphasized his administration’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption, stating that the fight against graft is not only about recovering lost funds but also ensuring transparency and accountability from all current appointees. He highlighted the active role of the Office of the Presidential Advisor on Anti-Corruption, which continues to receive and forward public complaints. “Our commitment is not just to recover what has been lost, but to ensure our appointees uphold the highest standards of accountability and integrity,” he stated.