We Are Custodians Of Public Money, Not Its Owners – Ato Forson Vows To Account For Every Cedi

Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to prudent management of public resources, stressing that public officials are only custodians and not owners of state funds.

In a post on his official Facebook page, the Finance Minister assured Ghanaians that his administration will ensure strict accountability in the handling of public money.

We are custodians of public money, not its owners. We shall account for every cedi. Our goal is to make recovery the exception, not an annual ritual, Dr. Ato Forson wrote.

His comments come at a time when government is under pressure to demonstrate fiscal discipline, curb corruption, and ensure value for money in public spending.

The Finance Minister’s statement is seen as a strong signal of government’s intent to strengthen financial controls, improve transparency, and put an end to the recurring cycle of financial irregularities that often dominate the Auditor-General’s annual reports.

Over the years, the Auditor-General’s reports have consistently revealed infractions, misappropriation, and unaccounted funds across various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), leading to annual recovery efforts by the state.

Dr. Ato Forson indicated that under his watch, the focus will shift from recovering misused funds after the fact to preventing leakages in the first place.

Observers say the Minister’s pledge aligns with government’s broader economic reform agenda aimed at restoring fiscal credibility, rebuilding investor confidence, and ensuring that taxpayers’ money is used for its intended purpose.

The Ajumako Enyan Essiam MP has in recent months emphasized the need for discipline, accountability and transparency in public financial management as Ghana works to stabilize the economy and sustain growth.

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