The Acting Controller and Accountant General, Mr. Kwasi Adjei, has assured the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that a joint committee team has been established to oversee the recovery of outstanding debts. This assurance comes after the PAC expressed dissatisfaction with the performance of the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD) regarding its failure to recover substantial state funds.
The CAGD acknowledged its shortcomings but emphasized that it operates under the Ministry of Finance, providing public financial management services to the government and the general public. During a session in Parliament, the PAC examined the 2023 Auditor-General’s report on the public accounts of Ghana, focusing on Public Boards, Corporations, and other Statutory Institutions.
The Committee stressed serious concerns over the CAGD’s failure to recover state funds, with a total of GH¢61 billion remaining uncollected. Only GH¢46 million has been retrieved so far, prompting the Auditor-General to recommend a more robust tracking system.
The recommended system would ensure that all transfers are properly recorded and easily traceable, preventing future losses. The joint committee team, established between the CAGD and the Ministry of Finance, aims to address these concerns and improve debt recovery.
Mr. Adjei’s assurance to the PAC indicates a commitment to addressing the shortcomings and improving public financial management. The establishment of the joint committee team is a positive step towards recovering outstanding debts and enhancing transparency and accountability in public finance management.
