Financial irregularities within public boards, corporations, and statutory bodies have seen a dramatic surge, rising by 109% in 2024, according to the latest report from the Auditor-General.
The report, which covers the financial year ending 2024, indicates that the total value of irregularities ballooned from GH¢8.8 billion in 2023 to a staggering GH¢18.4 billion. This sharp increase reverses a two-year downward trend and has reignited public concern over the persistent lapses in financial discipline across state institutions.
According to the Auditor-General, the irregularities span multiple categories, with the exception of payroll-related issues, which saw a notable decline from GH¢8.7 million in 2023 to just GH¢191,601 in 2024.
Out of the GH¢18.4 billion flagged, an estimated GH¢15.57 billion is deemed recoverable. These include unpaid taxes, locked-up investments, outstanding staff loans, inter-agency debts, and unretired impress. The remaining GH¢2.84 billion relates to administrative shortcomings such as procurement breaches and delays in procedural compliance. While these do not constitute direct financial losses, they underscore the widespread disregard for established public financial management protocols.
The Auditor-General has urged government and relevant oversight bodies to take swift corrective action to plug the gaps in accountability and strengthen internal controls within public institutions.
“We recommended strict implementation of our recommendations to ensure financial discipline in the management of public resources.”
The findings are expected to fuel further debate on fiscal responsibility and the need for stronger enforcement of financial regulations in the public sector.
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