By: Samuel Flomo, Jr.
The long-delayed Baryata Clinic project is now at the center of serious accountability concerns, as authorities admit that key contract documents for the facility cannot be found.
Despite appearing in the national budget since the 2018–2019 fiscal year and receiving multiple allocations, construction of the clinic, which began in 2022, remains incomplete.
Residents of Baryata Town in Jorquelleh District Two continue to endure hardship, traveling long distances to access basic medical services.
In a follow-up investigation, Bong County Health Officer, Dr. Daanue Paye Zwuogbae, acknowledged that the project is stalled largely because there is no available copy of the contract agreement between the government and the contractor.
Dr. Zwuogbae disclosed that since taking office, he has not seen any written documentation detailing the total cost of the project, payment structure, or specific obligations of the contractor.
He described the situation as deeply concerning, noting that without such records, the County Health Team cannot responsibly authorize further payments.
He explained that while some work had previously been carried out with the support of the County Health Team, it would be financially reckless to continue disbursing funds without first verifying the contract terms and determining how much has already been paid.
The County Health Officer further revealed that bank statements have now been obtained from the Central Bank and will be reviewed by the Comptroller to establish the total amount paid to the contractor.
That figure will then be measured against the physical progress of the project to determine whether there has been value for money.
In a startling development, the contractor reportedly also claimed not to have copy of the contract.
The County Health Team equally lacks the document.
However, Dr. Zwuogbae said he will escalate the matter to the Ministry of Health to retrieve the original agreement and clarify the project’s true financial status.
Until transparency is restored, he confirmed that a cheque totaling US$6,000 and L$799,000 will remain unsigned, and the clinic project frozen.