The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Ghana has initiated public hearings into selected reports from the 2025 Auditor-General's reports. The focus is on financial and tax irregularities involving the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and its Departments and Agencies. The Committee reviewed three key reports, seeking explanations for identified irregularities and pressing responsible institutions to account for findings and take corrective steps.
The reports under review cover the Birth and Death Registry, Institute of Local Government Studies, and a follow-up on the implementation of DACF-RFG infrastructure projects in 30 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies. Committee Chairperson Abena Osei Asare disclosed that 23 reports have been received, comprising 10 statutory reports, 11 performance audit reports, and 2 special reports. However, two reports were withdrawn pending formal re-submission.
The withdrawn reports include a special audit report on the Ghana Embassy in Washington, D.C., covering the period from 2017 to 2025, and the report on the 13th All African Games. Abena Osei Asare reaffirmed the Committee's commitment to urgent and credible accountability. She emphasized that while the process must be expedited, it must also be grounded in accuracy and credibility to ensure effective outcomes.
The Public Accounts Committee's public hearings aim to hold accountable various entities and officials implicated in financial and tax irregularities. By scrutinizing the Auditor-General's reports, the Committee seeks to ensure that public funds are utilized transparently and efficiently. The hearings also provide an opportunity for entities to provide explanations and outline corrective measures.
The Committee's efforts are part of its mandate to oversee the management of public funds and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Abena Osei Asare's emphasis on urgent and credible accountability reflects the Committee's determination to address identified irregularities and prevent future occurrences.
The public hearings will continue with the Committee engaging with various stakeholders, including officials from the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, and its Departments and Agencies. The Committee's findings and recommendations are expected to inform policy decisions and guide future actions.
Ultimately, the Public Accounts Committee's work aims to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in Ghana's public sector. By emphasizing urgent and credible accountability, Abena Osei Asare and the Committee are underscoring the importance of responsible management of public funds and resources.
Key points
- The Public Accounts Committee has commenced public hearings into 2025 Auditor-General's reports, focusing on financial and tax irregularities.
- Committee Chair Abena Osei Asare stresses the need for urgent and credible accountability in the public hearings.
- The Committee has received 23 reports, with two withdrawn pending formal re-submission.
