Ghana has launched an official investigation into the discovery of 81,885 ghost names on the National Service Authority’s payroll, marking a significant step in the government’s renewed anti-corruption efforts. President John Dramani Mahama has tasked the National Investigations Bureau with probing the irregularities, which were uncovered during a nationwide personnel headcount by the Ministry of Finance.
The audit, aimed at resolving allowance arrears dating back to August 2024, revealed that the previous administration had submitted a payroll of 180,030 names. However, verification confirmed that only 98,145 personnel were legitimate. As a result, the Ministry of Finance approved GHS 226,019,224 (approximately $14.7 million) in payments—substantially lower than the amount initially requested.
President Mahama has directed the new leadership of the National Service Authority to enact sweeping reforms to enhance transparency and tighten internal controls. The move aligns with his administration’s broader strategy to recover funds lost to corruption and ensure accountability in public institutions.
Simultaneously, Ghana’s anti-corruption campaign has intensified, with the Office of the Special Prosecutor declaring former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta a “wanted fugitive.” Authorities suspect his involvement in five financial transactions currently under investigation for corruption and other related offenses.
The crackdown comes as Mahama’s administration works to stabilize Ghana’s economy, combat financial mismanagement, and create sustainable job opportunities to improve citizens’ livelihoods amid ongoing economic challenges.
