By Godwill Arthur-Mensah
Accra, Aug. 20, GNA – The Coastal, Middlebelt, and Northern Development Authorities in Ghana have been operating with significant autonomy, lacking budgetary control oversight from the Office of Government Machinery (OGM).
Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Wayoe, Acting Chief Director of the Office of the President made this known when he appeared before the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament (PAC) public hearing in Accra on Wednesday.
“The Development Authorities were operating as if they’re autonomous. The Office of Government Machinery (OGM) did not have control over their budgets even though they are under the OGM. The Ministry of Finance handles their budgets and financial issues. They were over pampered,” Alhaji Dr Abubakar Wayoe stated.
This autonomy has led to financial infractions key issues include unearned salaries, unaccounted payment vouchers and lack of budgetary control.
The Development Authorities were described as being “over pampered,” suggesting inadequate oversight and accountability.
Members of PAC underscored the need for public officials given mandate to discharge their duties responsibly, instead of lamenting over existing problems.
Madam Abena Osei Asare, the Chairperson of PAC and Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, urged public servants given mandate to be firm, without fear or favour in order to promote financial propriety and accountability at the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).
Mr Cletus Seidu Dapilah, a member of PAC and Member of Parliament for Jirapa, urged political appointees to give “free hand to public servants to work” to ensure accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.
The 2024 Auditor-General’s Report has recorded various financial irregularities in Ghana’s public sector including GH¢4.6 billion cash irregularities involving public boards and statutory institutions.
The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) accounting for a substantial portion about GH¢67 Billion Payables.
The report found that almost 50% of Ghana’s GH¢67 billion payables for 2024 were potentially invalid, raising concerns about accountability and fiscal discipline.
The Auditor-General also reported an overstatement of Ghana’s public debt by GH¢138.91 billion, highlighting weaknesses in financial reporting and asset management.
These issues underscore the need for improved oversight, transparency, and accountability in Ghana’s public financial management.
GNA
Christian Akorlie