Former Auditor General, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, has expressed outrage over the government’s prioritization of the Hajj Village project, despite the country’s struggles to recover from previous financial missteps. Domelevo’s criticism comes in response to Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu’s claim that the project doesn’t involve taxpayer money.
Domelevo argues that since the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) is a state-owned enterprise, it’s misleading to say that taxpayer money isn’t involved. He points out that the government owns the majority of shares in GACL, making it a government-controlled entity.
The former Auditor General also draws a comparison with Ethiopia, highlighting that despite having a larger Muslim population and being five times bigger than Ghana, Ethiopia invested in a 5-star hotel and expanded its airport terminal instead of building a Hajj village. Domelevo believes that Ghana should strive for better, rather than celebrating mediocrity.
Domelevo’s criticism is further fueled by the government’s previous financial controversies, including the $58 million spent on the national cathedral project. He questions the government’s priorities, wondering why the Hajj Village project is being given precedence over more pressing issues.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
