Atiwa East MP Calls for Accountability in Public Accounts Committee Hearings

Atiwa East MP Calls for Accountability in Public Accounts Committee Hearings

The Member of Parliament for Atiwa East, Hon. Abena Osei-Asare, has expressed concerns about proceedings at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearings. Speaking to the media, she emphasized that the Committee's work would be made public to ensure transparency and strengthen Ghana's financial management systems. The aim is to build upon the foundation laid by the 8th Parliament to enhance accountability and ensure that every cedi approved by Parliament for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) is properly accounted for.

Hon. Abena Osei-Asare noted that during the hearings, several ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Communications, the Office of the Civil Service, the Ministry of Gender, and the Ministry of Lands and Forestry, were found to have similar challenges. She lamented that many technical officers fail to provide auditors with the necessary attention and documentation. Citing an example, she explained that vouchers often remain at agencies for extended periods, despite auditors granting up to 30 days for corrections and submissions. However, many MDAs only present the required documents when compelled to do so before the PAC.

She further revealed that her predecessor, Hon. Afedzi, established a protocol under the 8th Parliament that surcharges any agency failing to provide supporting documents within the stipulated time. This rule is now being enforced. "In one instance, an agency refused to provide evidence for vouchers amounting to GH¢175,000. They only submitted the documents months after the Auditor-General's report had been presented. By that time, the established protocol had been invoked, making the agency liable to pay the full amount," she explained.

Hon. Abena Osei-Asare stressed that such practices undermine efficiency and delay accountability, insisting that MDAs must take their responsibilities seriously to safeguard public funds.

Source:Bibianinews.com/Emmanuel