Report By: Ishmael Barfi
The Good Governance Advocacy Group Ghana (GGAGG) has sounded the alarm over the alleged capture of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) by private interests, specifically KGL, in violation of Act 722.
This alleged arrangement has sparked concerns about the integrity of the NLA and the potential loss of billions of cedis in revenue.
The group, during a press conference held in Accra, raised numerous allegations against KGL, citing that KGL’s exclusive rights to operate the 5/90 lottery game digitally contravene Act 722, which mandates the NLA as the sole authority for national lottery operations.
According to the group, this alleged violation has resulted in significant revenue losses for the state, with estimates suggesting that Ghana loses billions of cedis annually.
The Demands
In light of these allegations, GGAGG is calling for urgent action to address the situation. The group’s demands include the cancellation of KGL’s Exclusive License: Immediate cancellation of the license granted to KGL, restoring full legal compliance with Act 722, particularly Sections 2(2), 5(1), and 15.
In addition, the group is calling for an independent forensic audit of all contracts, transactions, and liabilities between NLA and KGL, as well as re-establish NLA’s Sovereignty: Reinstate the NLA as a fully sovereign, publicly accountable entity.
The Potential Consequences
If these allegations are true, the consequences could be severe. The potential losses include Ghana losing billions of cedis in potential revenue annually, and the collapse of NLA’s Regulatory Authority due to NLA’s inability to regulate the lottery industry effectively.
The Call to Action
GGAGG warns that failure to take corrective actions will lead to the shutdown or dissolution of the NLA, as it no longer serves its lawful purpose or the people of Ghana.
The group is calling on the current Managing Director of the NLA to take urgent and public steps to address the situation.
Source: www.thenewindependentonline.com
