No commencement certificate, no government contract—Ato Forson

Ghana’s Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, has issued a strong warning to public officials. He stated that business as usual is over.

In a directive on his Facebook page, he announced a new policy. Starting April 3, 2025, no government contract will be approved without prior authorisation from the Ministry of Finance.

“This is not business as usual,” he emphasized. “This is a decisive step to enforce fiscal discipline and accountability.” He aims to end financial recklessness in public administration.

Ato Forson addressed Chief Directors and senior officials of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). He noted that this policy aligns with the amended Public Financial Management Act of 2025.

He stressed, “No commencement certificate, no procurement.” This is now a legal requirement, not just another bureaucratic process.

He warned that breaches will have serious consequences. Individual principal spending officers will be held responsible for violations.

“The Ministry of Finance will no longer bear the weight of fiscal indiscipline alone,” he declared.

Ato Forson called for integrity and responsibility in public office. He believes this policy is the first step toward restoring public trust in governance.

“Restoring trust in public service begins with transparency and discipline,” he concluded. “That journey starts now.”