The University of Ghana chapter of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG-UG) has announced its intention to petition the Presidency for the removal of Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu should he fail to resign voluntarily.
This decision follows the release of a special payroll verification audit by the Auditor-General’s office, which alleged that the University of Ghana overstated employee compensation by GH¢59.2 million between 2022 and 2024.
UTAG-UG has rejected the audit findings, describing the report as both misleading and damaging. The association contends that the report was issued without affording the university the opportunity to clarify any discrepancies.
Speaking on Citi Eyewitness News on Tuesday, May 20, UTAG-UG Secretary Dr. Jerry Joe Harrison criticized the Auditor-General’s conduct, calling it unethical and unbefitting of such a high office.
“We must begin to think about ethics and hold ourselves to a higher standard. It is not about morality. All the countries that have developed did so not because of moral upbringing but because of strong ethical principles. People must know what they can and cannot do, regardless of what the law says,” he stated.
Dr. Harrison further questioned whether the Auditor-General had personally reviewed the report prior to its release and suggested the issue pointed to broader institutional failings within the Audit Service.
“I could be wrong, but all I’m saying is that he should reflect and recognise that his position is no longer tenable. If he continues to stay in office, as we have promised, we will take the next step by petitioning the Presidency for his removal,” he warned.
UTAG-UG insists that the audit report has unfairly tarnished the reputation of the university and its staff. The association says it is committed to pursuing all necessary steps to hold those responsible accountable and to restore public trust in state institutions.
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