Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has issued a stern warning to contractors regarding payment procedures tied to commencement certificates.
Speaking in an interview with CITI TV with Bernard Avle monitored by Kumasimail, Dr. Forson emphasized that contractors must possess valid commencement certificates before expecting any payments for work done.
He stated, “There are 194 contractors who need to work and present their commencement certificates. This has not been done yet, so we must validate the work before we can confirm payments.”
He further cautioned contractors who have not started work, urging them to secure the necessary certificates beforehand.
Dr. Forson clarified, “If you do not have commencement certificates and proceed with the work expecting payment, do not think Ato Forson will pay.”
He stressed the importance of following proper procedures, noting that unauthorized commitments would not be honored.
When asked about contractors who can show completed roads but lack commencement certificates, the Minister responded, “It’s an authorized commitment, and it’s not permitted. If you don’t go through the right process, you won’t be paid. You have to go through the right process.”
Regarding payments, Dr. Forson revealed that out of 67 contractors, only 13 will be paid immediately. The remaining 150 contractors must first verify their commencement certificates and the status of their projects.
Those close to completion are encouraged to finish their work, while those who have not started should refrain from beginning until proper documentation is secured.
Source: www.kumasimail.com /Kwadwo Owusu
