Leaked Memo Alleges GH₵8.3 Million NSB Expenditure on Opposition Party Ahead of 2024 Elections
A confidential memorandum from former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene has surfaced, alleging that GH₵8.3 million was allocated to provide communications equipment to an unnamed opposition party prior to Ghana's 2024 general elections. The memo, covering activities from 2020 to 2024 under "Special Operations," suggests the expenditure was justified as promoting "Stability of Nation/National Cohesion/Political Impartiality."
Additional Financial Disbursements Detailed
Beyond the GH₵8.3 million allocation, the memo outlines several other significant expenditures:
- GH₵960,000 paid to the Defence and Interior Committee in 2020/2021 as "allowances" for enacting the National Signals Bureau Act.
- GH₵309,000 disbursed to the Subsidiary Legislation Committee in 2024.
- Over GH₵14 million spent on election-related activities, including GH₵7.2 million for the December 2020 polls and GH₵6.7 million for the December 2024 elections.
- GH₵5.1 million allocated for luxury vehicles, specifically 2024 Nissan Patrols and a Land Cruiser, designated for a "Special Aide to the President-Elect" in December 2024.
- GH₵9.5 million invested in cyber surveillance solutions, codenamed Taurus, Scorpion, and Essien.
- GH₵6.9 million directed towards Operation Conquered Fist, a counter-terrorism initiative spanning 2020 to 2024.
Legal Proceedings and Defense
Mr. Adu-Boahene, currently detained by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), faces charges alongside his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, and two others, including Mildred Donkor and Advantage Solutions Limited. The charges encompass 11 counts, such as stealing, money laundering, defrauding by false pretenses, and willfully causing financial loss, totaling GH₵49 million.
In his defense, Mr. Adu-Boahene contends that the expenditures were legitimate national security operations. He challenges the prosecution by questioning, "How does one steal public funds without the Auditor-General flagging it?"
Public and Political Reactions
The revelations have sparked public outcry and calls for transparency regarding the use of state funds. Political analysts and civil society organizations are urging thorough investigations to ascertain the legitimacy of the expenditures and to ensure accountability within governmental agencies.
Conclusion
The alleged misappropriation of funds by a high-ranking national security official underscores the need for stringent oversight and transparency in governmental financial operations. As investigations continue, the Ghanaian public awaits clarity and justice to uphold the integrity of the nation's democratic and security institutions.
