MASLOC Car Scandal GHS430m Debt Wontumi and Charles Bissue In Hot Water Over State Vehicles

The Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC) is intensifying efforts to recover outstanding debts after its new management disclosed that the institution is owed approximately GH¢430 million. The substantial amount has prompted a renewed recovery campaign targeting individuals who allegedly defaulted on loans or failed to account for government vehicles and other assets obtained through the agency.

MASLOC Chief Executive Officer Abigail Elorm Mensah said the institution had recovered about GH¢8 million in recent months. However, she acknowledged that the amount remained small compared with the total debt owed. According to her, several vehicles acquired through MASLOC-related financing arrangements have not been fully paid for, while others are allegedly being held by individuals who have failed to meet their repayment obligations.

Among those reportedly being pursued is Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party. MASLOC officials, accompanied by National Security operatives, reportedly visited his residence and retrieved three vehicles. Two additional vehicles are said to remain in his possession. The agency maintains that the vehicles belong to the state and should be returned unless the required payments are settled.

Charles Cromwell Bissue, a former presidential staffer and secretary to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining, has also been mentioned in connection with the recovery exercise. Bissue is separately facing corruption-related proceedings initiated by the Office of the Special Prosecutor. MASLOC has additionally alleged that he obtained at least one vehicle using a false identity, a claim reportedly being pursued through legal channels.

The situation has renewed concerns about MASLOC’s longstanding difficulties with loan defaults, asset management and accountability. Previous recovery operations have reportedly resulted in the retrieval of hundreds of vehicles from individuals who failed to fulfil their financial obligations.

The current debt level has raised questions about the agency’s ability to sustain its support for small businesses if substantial amounts remain unrecovered. MASLOC provides financial assistance intended to help individuals and businesses, making effective repayment systems important to the continuation of its programmes.

While some supporters of individuals named in the recovery exercise may view the actions as politically motivated, governance advocates argue that public resources must be protected regardless of political affiliation. They stress that allegations should be assessed fairly and supported by evidence.

MASLOC has indicated that its recovery efforts will continue as it seeks to reclaim outstanding funds and state assets. Further action may follow as officials examine unresolved accounts and investigate suspected irregularities.