PAC sittings crucial for accountability – Northern Regional Minister

THE Northern Regional Minister, Ali Adolf John Mburidiba, has described the sittings of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) as vital to strengthening accountability and safeguarding the use of public funds.

He said the work of the Committee remains indispensable in promoting transparency and good governance across the country.

Mr Mburidiba made the remarks in Tamale when members of the committee paid a courtesy call on him ahead of their sittings in the region.

He assured the Committee of the region’s full readiness and cooperation, noting that all Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) expected to appear before it had been duly notified.

According to him, his office has taken proactive steps to ensure that the affected officials make themselves available and are adequately prepared.

“I have formally communicated to all the MMDCEs who are to take part in this exercise to avail themselves in time and to come fully prepared,” he mentioned.

Mr Mburidiba commended the Committee for bringing its work closer to the people, stressing that its presence in the region reflects Parliament’s commitment to ensuring that public resources are managed prudently and in line with financial regulations.

He described PAC sittings as a cornerstone of Ghana’s public financial accountability system, providing a platform to scrutinise Auditor-General’s reports, address financial irregularities and hold public officials accountable.

Beyond accountability, he noted, the exercise also promotes institutional learning, allowing public officers to correct lapses and improve compliance with financial management laws.

The minister urged all officials appearing before the Committee to approach the process with seriousness, honesty and a strong sense of responsibility.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Abena Osei-Asare, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to executing its constitutional mandate without fear or favour.

She said the committee’s presence in the region is to ensure that issues raised in the Auditor-General’s reports are thoroughly examined, while promoting transparency and accountability in public service.

The sittings are expected to strengthen accountability mechanisms and improve governance outcomes in the region.

FROM YAHAYA NUHU NADAA, TAMALE

Follow our WhatsApp Channel now! https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAjG7g3gvWajUAEX12Q