Ghana's Public Accounts Committee criticizes Ministry of Agriculture over audit inquiry delay

The Chairperson of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Abena Osei-Asare, has expressed disappointment with the Ministry of Food and Agriculture regarding its failure to present key witnesses for a special audit inquiry. The inquiry concerns GH¢69 billion in outstanding government claims and commitments.

Mrs. Osei-Asare stated that the committee's work has been stalled because the Ministry failed to honor a rescheduled meeting. The committee had requested the appearance of suppliers and other individuals cited in the audit report to provide additional information on issues raised during previous hearings.

According to the PAC chairperson, the Ministry had previously requested a date change due to a stakeholder's visa appointment. Although the committee accommodated this request, the Ministry failed to appear on the rescheduled date and has not provided further communication, preventing the completion of the special audit report examination.