Ghana's first female Auditor-General calls for tougher action on audit findings

Ghana's newly appointed Audito r-General, Dr Pamela Graham, has called for stronger enforcement of audit findings, warning that public confidence in state institutions depends on holding officials accountable for financial misconduct.

Speaking after being sworn into office by President John Dramani Mahama on Friday, Dr Graham said audit reports should not end with the publication of findings but must lead to timely investigations and action against those responsible for financial irregularities.

"When findings are not acted upon, the system weakens further. When they are addressed decisively, trust begins to build," she said.

Her remarks come as Ghana continues to face growing public scrutiny over the management of public finances and demands for greater accountability in the use of state resources.

Dr Graham welcomed the government's decision to establish dedicated High Courts to hear cases arising from Auditor-General's reports, describing the move as an important step towards strengthening enforcement and improving confidence in public institutions.

The appointment is historic, making Dr Graham the first woman to serve as Ghana's Auditor-General.

She said she hoped her appointment would inspire more young women to pursue leadership roles, while emphasising that her priority would be protecting the independence of the Auditor-General's office.

"The strength of this office lies in its independence," she said, adding that the institution must remain impartial and guided solely by the law.

Drawing on more than two decades of professional experience, Dr Graham pledged to strengthen the Ghana Audit Service through higher professional standards, improved performance and closer collaboration with its staff.

President Mahama, who administered the oath of office, urged the new Auditor-General to carry out her constitutional mandate independently and without political interference, describing accountability as essential to Ghana's economic recovery and democratic governance.

The Auditor-General is responsible for examining the accounts of public institutions and reporting on how taxpayers' money is spent. The office plays a central role in promoting transparency and detecting financial mismanagement across government.