Richard Jakpa, a defendant in the ongoing ambulance procurement trial, has defended the integrity of the procurement process, emphasizing that it received full approval from both Parliament and Cabinet.

In response to legal challenges raised by Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame, Jakpa assured the court that the procurement procedures underwent rigorous scrutiny at multiple levels. He highlighted extensive evaluations conducted by both Parliament and Cabinet, which included comprehensive cost assessments and technical reviews to ensure adherence to standards.

The defendant presented documentation, including meeting minutes and evaluation reports, to substantiate that due diligence was observed throughout the process. Jakpa asserted that these measures aimed to secure the best value for public funds and ensure high-quality service delivery in the health sector.

The Attorney-General had initiated the prosecution, expressing concerns over potential irregularities and financial implications for the state in the ambulance procurement.

Jakpa countered these claims, maintaining that the entire process adhered to national procurement laws and international standards of transparency.

The trial continues to unfold amidst scrutiny of the procurement procedures, with Jakpa’s defence focusing on the thoroughness and legality of the approval process by Ghana’s legislative and executive bodies.