Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson Questions Timeliness of Presidential Directive

Accra, Ghana, January 3, 2024 — Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minority Leader, has raised concerns over President Akufo-Addo’s recent directive for an audit into the contract between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML). Dr. Forson accuses the President of attempting to whitewash the controversial contract, describing the directive as belated and potentially a strategy to deter Parliament from fully exercising its oversight responsibilities.

Perceived Catch-Up Strategy

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, January 2, the Ajumako Enyan Essiam lawmaker expressed skepticism about the President’s timing, considering that Parliament had already directed GRA to suspend payments to SML. Dr. Ato Forson emphasized the vigilance of National Democratic Congress (NDC) MPs, pledging their commitment to a thorough investigation and accountability for those implicated in the scandal.

“The President, who should have led this fight in the wake of this scandal, is playing catch-up since Parliament has also directed GRA to suspend all payments to SML,” noted Dr. Ato Forson in his post.

Parliament’s Resolve and Skepticism

He further asserted that the President’s attempt at whitewashing through an audit would not dissuade Parliament from scrutinizing the matter to prevent the alleged diversion of state resources into private pockets. Dr. Ato Forson’s remarks follow President Akufo-Addo’s appointment of KPMG to conduct the audit, with a specified two-week duration.

Ongoing Concerns and the Need for Thorough Examination

Dr. Ato Forson’s comments underscore ongoing concerns within the opposition regarding the GRA-SML contract. The Minority Leader insists on the importance of a comprehensive examination to ensure transparency, accountability, and prevent any potential impropriety in the handling of state resources.