The Office of Government Machinery has revealed that GH¢21 million was paid to contractors for the renovation of the Black Star Square ahead of the 67th Independence Day celebration, despite the event being held in the Eastern Region.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee on Tuesday, March 31, the Chief Director of the Office of Government Machinery, Abubakar Wayo, explained that the change of venue followed an executive decision taken after the contract had already been awarded.
According to him, although the Independence Day celebration was relocated, the renovation works at Black Star Square became necessary to prepare the facility for the Presidential Inauguration.
“…Although the initial plan was for the Independence Day celebration to be held there, the decision was later changed.
“I do not think we had the authority to halt the project simply because the contract specified the venue for the 67th Independence anniversary. We were directed by a higher authority to proceed,” he stated.
