The Auditor-General is looking into a case where a driver, Joe Gyaten, failed to deliver approximately three million male condoms and other contraceptives worth GH¢1.34 million to the Regional Medical Stores (RMS) in the Eastern Region. The delivery, which included 120,000 vials of Depo-Provera, was scheduled for August 22, 2022, but never reached its destination.
Mr. Gyaten has been unable to explain the whereabouts of the missing items, prompting an investigation under Section 96 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921). This section mandates accountability for any loss or damage of government property, with potential penalties including imprisonment or fines upon conviction.
The Auditor-General’s latest report uncovered over GH¢2.41 billion in financial irregularities across various ministries, departments, and agencies in 2023. Irregularities related to stores and procurement, including the missing contraceptives valued at GH¢1.34 million, accounted for a significant portion of these findings.
Tax irregularities constituted the majority of financial infractions reported, totaling GH¢2.16 billion, while cash irregularities amounted to GH¢88.41 million during the review period.
This audit underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in managing public resources effectively.
Source: The Mirror
