Enforce surcharges, modernise audits to curb GH¢100bn losses – Audit Service urged

The Ghana Audit Service has been urged to fully enforce its powers to disallow and impose surcharges on offenders to curb the misappropriation of public funds. Prof Francis Dodoo, Presidential Advisor on the National Anti-Corruption Programme, emphasized that weaker enforcement and lax handling of financial misconduct undermined efforts to safeguard public resources.

He urged the establishment of higher surcharge rates, more punitive than current Treasury bill rates, to serve as a stronger deterrent against financial irregularities. Dr David Ofosu-Dorte, Senior Partner at AB & David Africa, highlighted the importance of modernizing auditing systems through performance-based digital and AI-enabled technologies to keep pace with complex public financial systems.

He stressed the need for the Auditor-General to strengthen the quality of their reports, involve relevant institutions, and collaborate with entities like the Police, internal auditors, and Value for Money Office. Prof Dodoo cautioned against using family ties or political connections to mitigate penalties, noting that such leniency harms societal trust in public institutions.

The duo also called for accelerating the adoption of digital technologies to enhance monitoring, tracking, and reporting processes.