Reports from Accra-based Asaase Radio indicate that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is considering authorizing the release of the much-anticipated KPMG audit report on the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilization Limited (SML) deal.
According to Asaase News, sources within the Jubilee House, the seat of the Presidency, have hinted at the President’s inclination to use his discretionary powers to make the report public. The report purportedly encompasses comprehensive recommendations by KPMG, including the cancellation and renegotiation of certain contracts.
The insider revealed, “President Akufo-Addo very simply passed on all that KPMG recommended should be done about SML contracts, including canceling two of them, suspending two others, and renegotiating the variable fee of the one that was recommended to remain but altered to have a fixed fee.”
While the Presidency previously declined requests for the full KPMG report, citing exemptions under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, there are indications that President Akufo-Addo may reconsider. The Chief Director at the Office of the President cited sections of the RTI Act, which exempt information submitted to the President or Vice-President containing opinions, advice, or deliberations.
The KPMG report, received by President Akufo-Addo on April 2, 2024, three months after initiating the audit, has been subject to intense speculation and scrutiny. Following a thorough review, the government issued directives to the GRA based on the report’s findings, signaling the gravity of its contents.
Despite initial reluctance to disclose the report’s details, the potential authorization for its release marks a significant step towards fostering transparency and addressing public concerns regarding the GRA-SML deal. As stakeholders await further developments, the prospect of unveiling the KPMG audit report promises to shed light on crucial matters of governance and accountability in Ghana.