President Directs Comprehensive Review of Contract Between NLA and KGL

Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has directed, with immediate effect, that the contract between the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and KGL Technology Limited be subjected to a comprehensive review. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Callistus Mahama, the Executive Secretary to the President, communicated in a letter addressed to the Minister for Finance that where necessary, renegotiation should ensure complete protection of the public interest, value for money, and strict compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and government policy. The letter referenced various publications by The Fourth Estate and preliminary consultations with the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, as well as the Minister for Finance, concerning issues arising from the contract between the NLA and KGL Technology Limited. The statement outlined that the review would examine the legal basis, scope, duration, and financial terms of the contract. It would assess revenue-sharing arrangements, fees, commissions, exclusiv ity provisions, and any contingent liabilities to the State. The review aims to ensure compliance with the Constitution, the Public Procurement Act, the National Lottery Act, and any relevant approvals. Additionally, it will evaluate performance obligations, transparency requirements, data ownership, and audit rights. The review is tasked with identifying any clauses that unduly prejudice the State or constrain regulatory oversight. All parties involved are expected to cooperate fully with the review team, providing complete access to contracts, addenda, correspondence, financial records, and operational data as required. The Attorney-General, in collaboration with the Minister for Finance and the Minister responsible for the National Lottery Authority, is to form a joint technical team to conduct the review and submit recommendations to the President within a specified timeframe. Should the review find grounds for renegotiation, the technical team is to ensure that the revised terms secure improved fiscal returns to the State, strengthen governance and accountability, preserve regulatory authority, and align the arrangement with government policy and best international practice. The directive emphasized the importance of strict compliance and concluded with an assurance of the President's highest consideration.