Vincent Assafuah raises red flags over sole-sourced contracts at NPRA

The Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has raised concerns over what he describes as the growing use of sole sourcing by the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA), warning that the trend could undermine transparency, accountability, and value for money in public procurement.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, April 19, the legislator highlighted a number of high-value transactions he claims were executed without competitive bidding, including a GH¢4.2 million consultancy contract and a vehicle procurement deal exceeding GH¢17 million and $160,000.

Mr Assafuah questioned the rationale behind engaging an external consultant at an estimated monthly cost of GH¢175,000, arguing that such an arrangement may duplicate roles already existing within the Authority.

He suggested that the decision raises critical questions about:

• Institutional efficiency
• Cost justification
• Whether internal expertise is being underutilised

According to him, public institutions like the NPRA are expected to maximise in-house capacity before resorting to costly external engagements.

The MP also drew attention to procurement records indicating that several vehicles were acquired by the Authority in 2025 under sole sourcing arrangements.

He further alleged that one of the vehicles is reportedly registered under a company linked to the supplier, raising concerns about:

• Asset ownership transparency
• Potential conflicts of interest
• Compliance with procurement regulations

He argued that such developments warrant closer scrutiny to ensure adherence to due process and safeguard public resources.

While acknowledging that sole sourcing is permitted under Ghana’s procurement laws in specific circumstances—such as urgency or limited supplier availability—Mr Assafuah cautioned against its frequent use for major contracts.

“Sole sourcing is meant for urgency and necessity, not convenience and favouritism,” he stated.

He warned that repeated reliance on sole sourcing without clear and justifiable reasons could erode public trust, particularly in an institution responsible for overseeing pension funds.

The concerns raised highlight ongoing debates around procurement practices within public institutions in Ghana, especially regarding:

• Transparency in contract awards
• Value for money in public spending
• Strengthening oversight mechanisms

Analysts note that issues surrounding procurement integrity are particularly sensitive in agencies like the NPRA, given their role in safeguarding long-term financial security for workers.

Mr Assafuah is calling for increased scrutiny of the Authority’s procurement processes and greater transparency in future transactions.

The NPRA is yet to publicly respond to the allegations, but the issue is expected to generate further discussion among policymakers, civil society organisations, and oversight bodies in the coming weeks.