GH¢68.7bn audit irregularities were intentional, not mistakes — Crime analyst

A crime analyst has argued that the irregularities uncovered in the audit of GH¢68.7 billion in government arrears and payables were deliberate actions rather than simple administrative errors.

Speaking on the issue, Nana Addo Jnr stated that the suspicious claims indicate a pattern where companies are quickly formed just to obtain government contracts. He stressed that such companies must be investigated to determine their real owners and whether politically connected individuals are behind them.

According to him, these practices are not mere mistakes in paperwork but intentional schemes designed to divert money that should have gone to the state. He also pointed out that such conduct has occurred under different governments over the years.

He further questioned whether the irregularities would have been exposed if there had not been a change in government, suggesting that political transitions sometimes make it easier for such issues to surface. He emphasised the need for a thorough investigation to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Background:

The Parliament of Ghana has referred a special audit report on GH¢68.7 billion in government arrears and payables to the Public Accounts Committee for investigation.

The audit was conducted by the Ghana Audit Service in collaboration with international firms Ernst & Young and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

The review examined unpaid Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs), invoices and Bank Transfer Advices (BTAs) submitted by ministries, departments and agencies to the Finance Ministry for settlement.

Out of the total GH¢68.7 billion in claims presented for verification, auditors rejected GH¢8.1 billion because they could not be validated due to suspected irregularities and falsified records.