PAC Ensures Public Funds Are Recovered from Former Staff

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament vowed to ensure public funds are used wisely. The committee wants citizens to trust government spending. Moreover, it will monitor all ministries to prevent misuse.

At its first public sitting on the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report, PAC Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare said, “We will monitor ministries closely. PAC ensures public funds remain secure for all citizens.” She added that the committee will enforce accountability and take action when needed.

The Chairperson praised the previous committee for laying a strong foundation. She explained that the current committee will protect financial integrity. Furthermore, ministries, departments, and agencies must implement recommendations within one month. If they fail, the Attorney-General will intervene immediately.

PAC ordered the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection to recover GH¢54,665 from Dr Kennedy Osei. Dr Osei resigned eight months after returning from a fully sponsored PhD in Australia. He had received two years’ paid leave funded by GETFund, totaling AU$125,000 and US$49,400 in allowances.

Auditors discovered Dr Osei continued receiving payments he did not earn. Consequently, he accrued GH¢54,664.91 in unearned funds. Ministry officials argued the recoverable sum dropped to GH¢19,325.51 and claimed Dr Osei had paid GH¢3,000. Auditors rejected this claim and insisted on recovering the full amount.

PAC members strongly criticized the discrepancies. Ranking Member Samuel Atta-Mills called Dr Osei’s actions “fraud” and demanded accountability from him and his guarantors. Meanwhile, Minister Dr Agnes Lartey assured the committee her ministry would work closely with Civil Service and GETFund to recover the full sum.

PAC emphasized strict monitoring of public spending. In addition, the committee clarified it will continue to ensure public funds remain protected. Citizens can expect transparent reporting and firm action whenever public resources are at risk.

Source: Graphic Online