26 Years On, Wa Court Complex Remains Unfinished
MPs Dispute Contractor's 90% Completion Claim, Project Stalled Again
Ekow Quansah | StatsGH |
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The Wa Court Complex was designed to host three high courtrooms and three circuit courtrooms. It also includes offices for judicial staff. For decades, judges, lawyers, and people involved in court cases have faced congested spaces. Court clerks sometimes call out case names from outside the building due to limited room.
Construction began 26 years ago but has stopped many times. The former Chief Justice Sophia Akuffo once visited. She confirmed the building was solid and ordered work to continue. However, the contractor later abandoned the site. This was due to unpaid bills. The unfinished building then became overgrown with weeds. It was reportedly used to keep animals and as a hiding spot for criminals.
Authorities decided to end the first contract. They then gave the project to Project Seven Limited. Work resumed a few years ago. The goal was to finish the complex for the 2025 Ghana Bar Conference in Wa. That deadline was missed.
During the recent inspection, committee members noted that the work did not match the contractor’s claim. The building currently lacks features for people with disabilities. Committee Chairman Joseph Frimpong expressed his deep disappointment. He stated that the reality on the ground differed greatly from what they were told in Accra. He said the work was claimed to be 90% done in December last year. Now, five months later, the building's state is poor.
Bede Ziedeng, the Lawra MP and ranking member, shared these concerns. He mentioned the contractor's complaints about unpaid bills. The contractor assured them that payment would provide the needed funds to finish the work. However, after payment, the contractor still raised issues.
Umar Alhassan, MP for Zabzugu, also voiced his frustration. He believes the contractor has taken payment but left the work incomplete. He vowed that action would be taken against the contractor in Accra. The committee chairman confirmed they will bring the contractor before Parliament when it reconvenes. The contractor will need to explain the lengthy delays.