The Finance Minister, Dr. Casiel Ato Forson, has directed all Chief Directors in the 23 ministries to cooperate with the Auditor-General to ensure he has everything he needs to carry out a comprehensive audit with regard to a nationwide payroll audit targeting Ministries, Departments, Agencies and all subvented organisations under the government’s payroll system.
Speaking at a meeting with Chief Directors of the various ministries, Dr. Ato Forson indicated that there was the need to uphold transparency and accountability in handling of arrears owed by the government.
“Currently, we are dealing with over 67billion cedis in arrears across the 23 ministries” he bemoaned.
Dr. Forson therefore directed all Chief Directors to work with the Auditor-General, ensuring he has everything he needs to carry out a comprehensive audit.
“The Auditor-General has been given enough time to complete this process. During this time, I ask for full cooperation and complete disclosure. Nothing must be withheld”, he added.
Dr. Forson said, the government owes allegiance to Ghanaians to manage public funds with the highest level of integrity and discipline and that begins with clarity, audits and responsible decision-making.
