Michael Danquah, MCE Weija-Gbawe
The Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly, already grappling with financial challenges, is now under scrutiny as newly appointed Municipal Chief Executive, Michael Danquah, makes headlines for purchasing a luxury office chair at a staggering cost of GHS 20,800.00, bypassing standard procurement procedures.
Appointed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on February 3, 2024, Danquah’s administration has raised concerns over financial propriety. In addition to the expensive office chair, Danquah acquired a high-end HP Pavilion x360 15 laptop for GHS 21,996.00. This laptop, featuring an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD, was procured at a price significantly higher than market rates.
A market survey by The Hawk Newspaper revealed that similar laptops were available for much less, with prices ranging from GHS 5,700 to GHS 9,000 at reputable dealers. The disparity in pricing has sparked questions about the justification of such high expenditures.
Danquah also approved a GHS 36,000 provision purchase, echoing the irregularities observed in the procurement of office equipment. The lack of adherence to proper contractual procedures for these acquisitions has raised concerns about the management of public funds.
The issue has led to a broader debate on the sustainability of procurement practices within the Assembly, particularly with each change in leadership seemingly accompanied by costly replacements of office furniture and equipment. This situation underscores the need for greater transparency and financial prudence in handling public resources.
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