Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee James Klutse-Avedzi, has issued a stern reminder to schools and assemblies about the importance of adhering to the Public Procurement Act 2003, Act 663, as amended, particularly in the disposal of obsolete equipment and vehicles.
His call for compliance, made during a public hearing held by the Committee in Ho, Volta Region seeks to compel schools and assemblies to do the needful to avert needless problems in the future.
During the hearing, it was revealed that many assemblies currently bypass proper procedures by writing directly to the Office of the Chief of Staff for approval. Similarly, schools must make requests through the Ghana Education Service (GES) to the same office before they can proceed with auctions. This roundabout approach highlights the need for streamlined and lawful practices in managing public assets.
Some Details as Expounded by the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee James Klutse Avedzi
The session highlighted a concerning trend among schools and Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), where obsolete equipment and vehicles are being disposed of without following the mandated procedures. This disregard for the proper channels not only undermines the law but also raises issues of transparency and accountability in public resource management.
Klutse-Avedzi’s admonition aims to reinforce the significance of compliance with the Public Procurement Act. He urges all public institutions to follow due process to ensure that the disposal of assets is conducted legally and ethically, thereby promoting better governance and accountability across public sectors in Ghana.