[ad_1]
The minority in parliament have given assurances that they will ensure the state gets a fair deal in its AKER / Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) deal.
According to the Minority, they oppose the proposed operation to acquire shares by GNPC in the Aker and AGM blocks or the decision by GNPC to acquire larger stakes in the said oil blocks.
Indeed, the former administration headed by Mahama has constantly solicited and advocated for a significant increase in GNPC’s participation in the country’s oil assets in order to maximize national revenues for the country’s development.
“The NDC / Mahama government created Explorco as a commercial wing of GNPC in 2015, with the aim of making it an operator for the foreseeable future,” he added.
They noted, however, that the current deal “has serious concerns about the proposed hyper-inflated buy price of blocks and demand.”
In a press release signed by John Abdulai Jinapor, a member of Parliament’s Mining and Energy Committee, and a member of Parliament’s Finance Committee, the minority hinted that they had taken the first steps to respond. to several grievances in the agreement.
Following these concerns, the minority demanded that the GNPC go back and negotiate the deal into a deal that addresses value-for-money concerns and presents it to Parliament for consideration and approval.
Further, the minority, after a joint committee meeting held on Tuesday, August 3, observed that it was inappropriate for Energy Minister Matthew Opoku Prepmeh to ask parliament to grant GNPC blanket approval. to acquire 37% and 70% of shares in the Aker and AGM blocks.
Mr. Opoku Prempeh filed the request in the House on Monday, August 2. Its request included the granting of a loan not exceeding $ 1.65 billion to finance the acquisition, comprising a purchase amount not exceeding $ 1.3 billion for the two blocks and a capital share of expenditure. $ 350 million GNPC Explorco for Peacan 1.
After the GNPC goes to the negotiating table and their deal has been approved, the minority want the loan agreement for the purchase of the shares to also be presented to parliament for consideration and approval.
Once again, the minority makes the following demands;
“GNPC, as a buyer, should engage the services of an independent and reputable international financial institution to conduct a comprehensive assessment and risk assessment of the Aker and AGM blocks. GNPC’s presentation said Aker and AGM have added 267 million barrels to the blocks since their takeover.
“The minority also demands a full audit of this claim and of the expenses incurred by Aker and AGM following the acquisition of the oil blocks by a reputable and independent audit firm.
“All technical and financial documents relevant to the Agreement, in particular the necessary assessment, appraisal and / or audit reports, must be submitted to Parliament by the Minister prior to the presentation and review of the Final agreement negotiated.
For the minority, these actions bear witness to “our unwavering commitment to guarantee fair treatment to the State in this transaction”.
“We will diligently review all necessary documentation with eagle eyes and ensure value for money in this transaction for the country,” the press release added.
Source link
