CDS AFRICA calls for prudence and accountability at BOST

The Center for Democracy and Socioeconomic Development (CDS Africa), a  Non-Governmental organisation, has called out the Bulk Energy Storage and Transportation Limited Company (BOST) for spending over GHC 200k in the procurement of 18 new iPhone 13 Pro Max in May last year. 

The think-thank further queried the use of funds by the BOST for procurement of new phones for its corporate executives in an attempt to curb cyberattacks as there were alternative means of ensuring the security of its data.

In a press statement copied to the Ghanaviews, CDS Africa stated that “’it is still prudent to question the rationale in procuring iPhones for executives who, by virtue of their positions, should be financially capable of affording the latest smartphones themselves at the expense of the taxpayer and an ailing company’’.

The NGO called for accountability and prudence in the public sector adding that Executives of public sector entities must be diligent stewards of the resources entrusted to them, especially when those resources come from the limited public purse.

 As part efforts to dispel rumors of corruption and embezzlement, the think-tank urged the BOST to make public its financial books to provide clarity on the true amount spent on the mobile phones.

“Transparency in financial reporting is not only a matter of good governance but also a means to build trust with stakeholders and the public to help dispel perceptions of corruption,” the statement said.

The independent think-tank advocates that every expense by state agencies should be justified and scrutinized to ensure that it serves the best interests of the public adding that ‘’extravagant spending on luxuries like such high-end smartphones sends the wrong message to the public, who are expected to tighten their belts and make sacrifices.”

It can be recalled that the BOST over the weekend was reported to have procured some 18 pieces of IPhone 13 pro max in May last year for its corporate executives to protect BOST's data from cyberattacks.

The total cost of the phones was estimated at GHS234,000.00 and grossed up for taxes at GHS285,412.16.