President John Dramani Mahama has urged the newly sworn-in Auditor-General, Dr. Pamela Graham, to carry out her duties with independence, fairness and courage, stressing that accountability remains central to Ghana’s development agenda.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of Dr. Graham at the Presidency, the President described the occasion as more than a constitutional formality, saying it reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to transparency, the rule of law and sound public financial management.
According to him, the Office of the Auditor-General plays a vital role in safeguarding public funds and ensuring that state resources are managed efficiently and in the best interest of citizens.
“The work of the Auditor-General extends far beyond auditing accounts. It strengthens confidence in public institutions, promotes prudent financial management, deters waste and corruption, and provides Parliament and the people of Ghana with the assurance that those entrusted with public resources remain accountable for every cedi they spend,” he said.
President Mahama noted that public expectations for transparency and accountability are higher than ever and expressed confidence in Dr. Graham’s ability to lead the institution effectively.
He said her professional background had adequately prepared her for the role and urged her to remain guided by facts, evidence and the law in the discharge of her duties.
“As you assume office today, you do so not in service to any government, political party or individual, but in service to the Constitution and the people of Ghana,” the President stated.
He emphasised that the independence of the Auditor-General’s office is essential to maintaining public trust in the country’s governance system and must be protected at all times.
President Mahama also used the occasion to remind public officials and institutions that accountability is a constitutional duty and not a matter of choice.
“Every Ministry, Department and Agency, every Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assembly, every state-owned enterprise and every public official must recognise that accountability is not optional; it is a constitutional obligation,” he said.
The President said the government’s economic recovery and development plans, including efforts to improve domestic revenue mobilisation, expand infrastructure, boost exports and implement the 24-Hour Economy policy, depend on the effective and transparent management of public resources.
He pledged continued support for the Ghana Audit Service through investments in technology, digital systems, staff capacity development and institutional reforms aimed at strengthening its operations.
President Mahama also called on public institutions to fully cooperate with the Auditor-General and ensure the implementation of audit recommendations.
He stressed that audit reports should not merely fulfil legal requirements but should be used as practical tools to improve governance, strengthen internal controls and eliminate waste.
The President further paid tribute to the outgoing Auditor-General for his service to the country and contribution to strengthening public accountability.
Congratulating Dr. Graham on her appointment, he urged her to preserve and build on the institution’s legacy by leading with professionalism, integrity and humility.
He said strong institutions are essential to the success of every democracy and expressed confidence that the new Auditor-General would help strengthen public trust in governance and protect the interests of Ghanaian taxpayers.
