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By Ruth Tang
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has released a comprehensive audit report detailing contracts and transactions between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).
The report, exceeding 300 pages, was initially withheld from the public, but the presidency has now disclosed it, emphasizing transparency and openness in governance. This decision came after a request from the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), on 24th April 2024, under section 18 of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) (RTI Act) for a copy of the report from KPMG on the contracts and transactions between GRA and SML.
The audit report, conducted by KPMG and commissioned by President Akufo-Addo on 29th December 2023, aimed to investigate contentious issues and provide insights for informed decision-making. However, earlier refusals to release the full report cited exemptions under the Right To Information Act, particularly concerning opinions, advice, and deliberations essential to the President’s decision-making process. Despite these exemptions, the presidency has opted for full disclosure, relinquishing privileges under section 5 (1) a and b (i) of the RTI Act.
“information is exempt from disclosure where the information is prepared for submission or has been submitted to the President or Vice President for consideration or contains matters the disclosure of which would reveal information concerning opinion, advice, deliberation, recommendation, minutes or consultation made or given to the President or Vice President and is likely to undermine the deliberative process on the part of the President or Vice President.”Section 5(a) and b(i).
The release of the KPMG report signifies a commitment to transparency and accountability in governance. “the President, in the interest of full transparency in governance, openness, and honesty with the public, has decided to waive the privilege under section 5 of the RTI Act and has directed the publication of the KPMG report in full.” the statement read in part.
