'No contractor will be paid until audit is complete', says Finance Minister Ato Forson

Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, announced that no payments will be made to government contractors. This decision stands until a comprehensive audit of outstanding arrears is completed by the Auditor-General.

At a meeting with Chief Directors from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), he said, “I have not paid a single contractor. I do not intend to do so until the audit is concluded.”

The audit involves GH¢67 billion in arrears owed by 23 ministries. It aims to promote fiscal responsibility and transparency in public financial management.

The Auditor-General has six weeks to complete the review. This includes verifying claims and checking for valid commencement warrants.

Dr. Forson instructed Chief Directors to cooperate with the Auditor-General. They must provide full disclosure of all outstanding commitments.

“Not a single pesewa will be paid without the Auditor-General’s endorsement,” he warned.

He emphasized the need to identify which commitments are due this year. He also stressed ensuring proper commencement authorization for these commitments.

“This is about safeguarding the public purse,” he stated. “We must avoid paying for inflated, invalid, or unauthorized commitments.”