OccupyGhana, a prominent civil society organization, has issued a call to the Council of State, urging them to advise President Akufo-Addo to reconsider the appointment of the private auditing firm, KPMG on GRA-SML Deal
This request pertains specifically to the audit of the revenue assurance contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML). The group emphasizes that such a reconsideration aligns with the stipulations outlined in Article 187 of the 1992 Constitution.
We urge the Council of State to seize the initiative and send its advice to the President forthwith. We also urge the President to revoke the appointment and mandate of the private audit firm, and to comply with Article 187 on the matter, Occupy Ghana.
In addition to addressing the Council of State, OccupyGhana has directed its appeal to the Auditor-General. The group recommends that if, for any reason, the Council of State or the President fails to comply with the aforementioned constitutional article, the Auditor-General should take independent action. This suggestion is grounded in the authority vested in the Auditor-General under Section 16 of the Audit Service Act.
It is worth recalling that President Akufo-Addo had previously tasked KPMG with conducting an audit on the revenue assurance contract. This contract, entered into with the aim of strengthening revenue assurance in sectors such as the downstream petroleum industry, upstream petroleum production, and the minerals and metals resources value chain, has become a focal point of scrutiny and intervention.
The overarching concern expressed by OccupyGhana centers on constitutional adherence and the proper execution of audits related to significant financial transactions. The group’s plea underscores the need for meticulous compliance with constitutional provisions, ensuring transparency and accountability in processes involving public finances.
