The Office of Government Machinery has disclosed that a total of GH¢21 million was disbursed to contractors tasked with refurbishing Black Star Square in preparation for the 67th Independence Day festivities, notwithstanding the celebration being relocated to the Eastern Region.
Addressing members of the Public Accounts Committee on Tuesday, March 31, Chief Director of the office, Abubakar Wayo, clarified that the venue alteration was the result of an executive directive issued subsequent to the awarding of the renovation contract.
He explained that, despite the Independence Day event being shifted, the refurbishment of Black Star Square remained imperative to ensure the facility’s readiness for the upcoming Presidential Inauguration.
“Although the initial blueprint envisioned the Independence Day commemoration taking place here, the directive was later modified,” he stated.
He added, “I do not believe we possessed the authority to suspend the project merely because the contract identified the venue for the 67th Independence anniversary. We were instructed by higher authority to proceed with the works.”
The disclosure highlights the intersection of executive decision-making and project management within public infrastructure initiatives, underscoring the challenges faced by state agencies when adjustments to national event planning occur after contractual obligations have been formalised.
