A United States-based Ghanaian Professor Kwaku Asare has raised concerns about the statement issued by the president regarding the KPMG report on the agreement between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).
Professor Asare pointed out that the president’s statement implies that further actions need to be taken as there is evidence of multiple violations of the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) the GRA Acts, and other laws.
The statement from the president highlighted that no technical needs assessment was done before engaging SML, and various reports suggest potential revenue leakages.
It was also revealed that the PPA did not grant approval for GRA to use the single source procurement method to engage SML on three occasions.
Furthermore, the KPMG report raised concerns about the absence of parliamentary approval for the multi-year contracts with SML.
It was noted that proper approval processes were not followed, and there was a lack of transparency and accountability in these agreements.
Professor Asare emphasized the need for complete transparency, accountability, and protection of the public purse.
He called for the immediate release of the KPMG audit and suggested the formation of a 3-person implementation team to study the report and recommend necessary actions, including disgorgement, civil penalties, and criminal prosecutions.
In conclusion, Professor Asare highlighted the importance of addressing the issues raised in the KPMG report to ensure that public funds are safeguarded and used effectively.
