By Richard Owusu-Achaw

THE AWARD of contracts outside the knowledge of the general membership of the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has sparked off a controversy between the Presiding Member of the House, Nana Kofi Senyah and the Head of the Metro Co-ordinating Directorate, Mr. Edward Gyem.

The controversy borders on the award of two particular contracts involving about ¢53 billion (GH¢500,300,000.00) among others.

The Metro Co-ordinating director is accused of bending the rules of the Local Government Act 462 which regulates the operations of the MMDA’s. His accuser indicates that a lot of bureaucratic bottlenecks and obstacles have been placed in the way of the presiding Member at the expense of the smooth running of the Local Government system in Kumasi by arrogating to himself certain administrative powers and taking unilateral decisions to suit his whims and caprices contrary to his calling and role as MCD. Citing instances, the Presiding Member said the MCD has single handedly awarded a contract to Messrs Webgold Limited , which company has turned around to institute a legal action involving GH¢300,000.00against the KMA for a breach of some sort.

He is also accused of unilaterally causing the publication of a contract award of the proposed Assembly Office Complex involving over GH¢500,000,000.oo (¢50 billion) without the consent of the General Assembly. Nana Kofi Senyah, who made a formal complaint at a meeting of the House a fortnight ago said the MCD who by Article 36, section 1 of the Local Government Act 462 is the secretary of the Assembly , had relaxed in acting his role. It is also alleged that the MCD does not regularly attend meeting of the Audit Implementation Committee, the body solely responsible for putting up checks and balances at the Assembly for fear of his activities nefarious activities being exposed.

As a result of the concerns raised, the Assemblt has consequently referred the matter to the KMA Chief Executive, Hon. Samuel Sarpong to appoint a Committee to address the issues before the trend affects the developmental agenda of the Assembly and the government.

Mr. Gyem has declined to comment on the allegations. He prefers that this reporter contacts the KMA PRO who is on leave for any reactions. E N D.