Ghana's Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has demanded an independent audit of payments made to Ghanaians who were evacuated from South Africa. This call follows reports of discrepancies in the financial support received by some returnees. According to Afenyo-Markin, investigations by the Minority revealed that some evacuees claimed to have received less than what was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry had stated that each evacuee received a package of GH¢5,500.
However, some returnees claim they received only GH¢2,000, sparking concerns over the management of funds. Afenyo-Markin argued that an independent investigation is necessary to uncover the truth. He also suggested that the minister responsible for the evacuation exercise should step aside to allow for a transparent audit. This, he believes, will help to prevent any potential bias and ensure that those responsible for any discrepancies are held accountable.
Afenyo-Markin rejected claims that the Minority had paid or coached any of the evacuees to make allegations. He insisted that complaints from returnees should be addressed through proper accountability mechanisms rather than attacks on those raising concerns. The Minority Leader emphasized that the focus should be on addressing the concerns of the evacuees rather than discrediting them.
The Minority Leader's call for an independent audit is not limited to the recent evacuation exercise. He also called for an audit of every evacuation exercise undertaken since 2017. This, he believes, will help to identify any patterns of mismanagement and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. Afenyo-Markin also requested the publication of the audit's terms of reference, timeline, and findings.
In addition to the audit, Afenyo-Markin questioned the government's implementation of its 24-hour economy policy. Specifically, he questioned the creation of jobs through a three-shift system. The Minority Leader demanded clarity on the institutions responsible for implementing the policy and the number of jobs created under the initiative. He emphasized that the government must provide answers on the progress of this policy.
The Minority Leader's comments come ahead of the Third Meeting of the Second Session of the Ninth Parliament, widely regarded as the Budget Meeting. During this meeting, Parliament is expected to undertake key legislative and budgetary business. Afenyo-Markin stated that the Minority would closely scrutinize the 2027 Budget to determine whether it contained firm commitments on employment targets and public-sector job creation.
The media engagement, which formed part of activities ahead of the Budget Meeting, was intended to strengthen communication between Parliament and the Ghanaian public. The engagement aimed to provide a platform for the Minority to share its concerns and demands with the public. The Minority Leader's demands for an independent audit and clarity on the government's policies reflect the concerns of many Ghanaians who are seeking accountability and transparency in governance.
Key points
- The Minority Leader demands an independent audit of payments made to Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa due to discrepancies in reported amounts received.
- Alexander Afenyo-Markin questions the government's implementation of its 24-hour economy policy and demands clarity on job creation.
- The Minority Leader calls for an audit of every evacuation exercise undertaken since 2017 and publication of the audit's terms of reference, timeline, and findings.
