Dr Fredrick Appoh, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Railway Development Authority, has confirmed that all instances of corruption within the railway sector are currently being managed by the relevant investigative bodies.
He emphasised that every individual found responsible for defrauding the state through corrupt practices will face prosecution.
Appearing on the programme Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the CEO highlighted several specific infractions and suspected cases of malpractice currently under review.
He noted that although the Tema-Mpakadan infrastructure project was valued at $447 million, the signalling system remains non-functional; consequently, the project has been flagged for further scrutiny.
Additionally, the sale of land by the previous administration has been investigated, with the findings submitted to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) for further action.
Dr Appoh clarified that all other recorded cases of corruption within the sector have been forwarded to the Attorney-General’s Department for comprehensive investigation.
He was responding to an enquiry regarding the status of suspected criminal activities within the rail industry.
“So all cases of corruption recorded under the Authority have been submitted for further investigation by the investigative and enforcement agencies.”
Regarding those involved in the unauthorised sale and lease of railway housing, the CEO explained that based on internal audits and the records available when he assumed office, these reports have also been referred to EOCO.
He lamented that the current administration inherited a sector plagued by deep-seated inefficiencies.
Dr Appoh further observed that newly constructed lines had been left to the mercy of scrap dealers, necessitating the repair of over 5.5 kilometres of rail lines before they could be rendered operational.
He also revealed that the previous government left a mere GH₵300,000 in internally generated funds at the Railway Development Authority, resulting in delayed and unpaid salaries.
Despite these inherited challenges, Dr Appoh stated that, through the commitment of President John Dramani Mahama, significant measures have been initiated to transform the sector.
He informed the host, Kwabena Agyapong, that the railway industry is currently undergoing structural policy reforms spearheaded by the Minister of Transport, Mr Bukari Nikpe.
As the implementing agency, the Authority remains prepared to modernise the sector in collaboration with all key stakeholders.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
