Accra: Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Kwamena Afenyo-Markin, has issued a cautionary statement to the current leadership of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod), suggesting that they could face stringent bail conditions in the future when political power shifts. During a press conference held in Parliament, Afenyo-Markin drew parallels between the hefty bail conditions previously imposed on individuals associated with the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.
According to Ghana Web, Afenyo-Markin specifically pointed to alleged financial losses tied to GoldBod's operations, which the Minority estimates to be around GHS22 billion. He argued that these figures represent a significant financial loss to the state, which could serve as grounds for future investigations. Afenyo-Markin highlighted ongoing actions by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) and the Attorney General, who have been actively pursuing individuals accused of owing money, leading to substantial bail requirements.
Afenyo-Markin remarked, "If that is the case, then the bail for Goldbod will be scary because the GHS22 billion losses recorded in just one year is simply shocking. The NDC keeps accusing the NPP of being thieves, yet the sale of gold alone has cost the country GHS22 billion in a single year. And when we raise these issues, they resort to insults and confusion."
The Minority has consistently referenced an International Monetary Fund (IMF) report that highlights significant losses related to the programme. In contrast, GoldBod officials have denied claims of extensive losses, citing audited surpluses as evidence to refute such allegations.