The government’s move to streamline the procurement of standardised metal-framed school desks has come under fresh scrutiny, as Old Tafo MP Ekow Vincent Assafuah raises concerns over the transparency of the process.
A memo circulating among Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) instructs assemblies to engage eight pre-selected companies whose desk samples the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs has already reviewed. While the directive emphasises that the shortlisted suppliers must still compete under the Public Procurement Act, the MP argues that the approach limits broader industry participation.
Mr. Assafuah questions why the Ministry opted for a restrictive tendering process instead of opening the procurement to all qualified Ghanaian firms. According to him, narrowing the pool of bidders risks undermining public confidence in the process and may shut out capable local businesses.
He notes that such procurement methods were heavily criticised in the past by the current government when it was in opposition—accusations that centred on lack of transparency and potential favouritism.
The MP says he is troubled that the same practices are being repeated, warning that the restrictive approach could fuel perceptions of bias.
Reacting in a social media post, he remarked, “Restrictions amidst a supposed competitive directive. All be lie. They are giving the contracts to their cronies. We will follow keenly.”
The Ministry has yet to publicly respond to the concerns.
