CHRAJ clears Paul Adom-Otchere in Christmas tree decor scandal

• Posted on November 9, 2023November 9, 2023
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

The Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has concluded its investigation into the allegations of procurement violations in the acquisition of Christmas decorations for the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) in 2021.

CHRAJ has cleared Paul Adom-Otchere, Board Chairman of GACL, of any wrongdoing.

The investigation followed a petition filed by Sacut Amenga-Etego, an NDC youth activist who accused Adom-Otchere of breaching various provisions of the Public Procurement Law and other rules during the procurement of the Christmas decorations.

In its report, CHRAJ acknowledged that Adom-Otchere had requested an invoice from one of the suppliers in the joint names of himself and GACL, which was considered a minor breach of Act 663. However, the Commission found no evidence to support the allegations that Adom-Otchere had violated other provisions of the law or principles of corporate governance.

The allegations stated that GACL, under Adom-Otchere’s supervision, spent approximately GHC118,000 of taxpayers’ money on the Christmas trees and lighting. Amenga-Etego sought a declaration that Adom-Otchere breached various provisions of the Public Procurement Law, the Public Financial Management Law, and the principles of corporate governance.

He also requested an order for GACL to surcharge Adom-Otchere and for CHRAJ to refer its findings to the appropriate authorities for prosecution.

In its report, CHRAJ stated that the procurement of the Christmas decorations was mainly done by the management, with Adom-Otchere’s only involvement being the request for an invoice from one of the suppliers.

While this was considered a breach, it was deemed minor. CHRAJ also highlighted that Adom-Otchere breached some provisions of corporate governance, particularly in his appearances in the media regarding the procurement, and advised him to refrain from interfering in the work of the management and strictly adhere to his role as Board Chairman.

The Commission concluded by emphasizing the importance of good corporate governance and the need for all individuals in such positions to uphold their prescribed functions.

This decision by CHRAJ comes as a relief for Paul Adom-Otchere, who has been exonerated from the allegations and can continue his duties as Board Chairman of GACL.

By Vincent Kubi