The Speaker of Ghana's Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has called on the newly inaugurated Audit Committee of the Parliamentary Service to ensure the highest standards of financial accountability. He emphasised that Parliament, as an institution responsible for holding the Executive accountable for public funds, must demonstrate the same commitment to transparency and prudent financial management. This directive was given at the inauguration of the committee in Parliament on Tuesday, October 29, 2026.
The Speaker stressed that the credibility of the legislature depends on the transparent and responsible use of entrusted resources. He urged committee members to discharge their duties without fear or favour and assured them of the full support of the Parliamentary Service Board and Management. The committee's role is crucial in ensuring that every cedi spent by Parliament is accounted for, and they are expected to work closely with the Internal Audit Unit and Management to strengthen internal controls.
The Audit Committee was established under the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), which requires covered public entities to establish audit committees. The committee's responsibilities include following up on audit findings, strengthening internal controls, and promoting value for money in public expenditure. They are also expected to hold management accountable where weaknesses are identified. The Speaker commended the previous Audit Committee, established in 2022, for its achievements.
The Chairman of the committee, Conrad Z. Dumbah, expressed appreciation to the Speaker for institutionalising the committee, emphasising the importance of good governance in advancing the national reset agenda. Other members of the committee include Dr. Mark Arhin, representing the Internal Audit Agency; Joyce Opoku-Duodu, representing the Institute of Chartered Accountants; Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, Clerk to Parliament; and Daniel Chirawura, Chief Finance Officer of the Parliamentary Service.
The Speaker tasked the committee to work closely with the Internal Audit Unit and Management to ensure the timely implementation of audit recommendations and promote value for money in public expenditure. He also urged members to declare any personal or business interests that could compromise their independence or affect their work on the committee. This move aims to ensure that the committee operates with the highest level of integrity.
The inauguration of the committee was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Deputy Clerks to Parliament, Camillo Pwamang and Rosemary Sarkodie; the Chief Information Officer of the Information Management Services, Dr. Kate Addo; and the Deputy Director-General of the Internal Audit Agency, Bismarck Arborbi-Ayitey. The Speaker's directive is seen as a significant step towards ensuring financial accountability in Parliament.
The new Audit Committee is expected to build on the experiences and best practices of its predecessors while making new strides in promoting financial accountability. With the Speaker's assurance of full support, the committee is poised to make a significant impact in ensuring that Parliament sets an example in transparent and responsible financial management.
Key points
- The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has charged the new Audit Committee to scrutinise every cedi spent by Parliament.
- The committee is expected to work closely with the Internal Audit Unit and Management to strengthen internal controls and promote value for money in public expenditure.
- The inauguration of the committee is seen as a significant step towards ensuring financial accountability in Parliament.
