GH¢20.5bn irregularities rock public institutions

Ghana's public financial management system is grappling with significant challenges, as financial irregularities totaling GH¢20.49 billion have been uncovered across various public bodies, according to the 2025 State of Corruption Report by the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC). The report, released in Accra, reveals a persistent weakness in expenditure controls and financial management rules enforcement.

Public boards, corporations, and other statutory institutions faced the most severe irregularities, increasing from GH¢8.8 billion in 2023 to GH¢18.4 billion in 2024. The report warns that this surge could have been channeled into essential social and economic development programs. Other notable increases were seen in overall irregularities, outstanding debtors, recoverable loans, cash, procurement, tax, stores, and contract issues.

Metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies reported a GH¢2.1 billion cost, with a 14.6% decline from 2023 but sharp increases in cash, outstanding debtors, payroll, procurement, and rent-related irregularities. The report highlights the OSP's efforts, with 71 investigations, seven convictions, and savings of GH¢5.73 billion.

However, the fight against corruption is far from over, as weaknesses in enforcement, political will, legal implementation, and sustainable funding persist. The GACC calls for accelerated reforms, stronger enforcement, and better funding for accountability institutions, urging stakeholders to collaborate and address corruption risks in their sectors.