An Economist, Daniel Amartey Anim, has intimated that the call by the Minority for a committee to be established to further probe the use of the COVID-19 funds by government, is in the right direction.
Reacting to the Finance Minister’s presentation on the usage of the COVID-19 funds, Mr. Anim indicated that, the Speaker also calling for a committee to be set up shows that it is a way of strengthening and deepening the nation’s democracy.
“It’s a way of deepening transparency and accountability for the use of state resources. So to me, I think the call by the Minority for a committee to be established is in the right direction.
“He [Finance Minister] has discharged his mandate as the Finance Minister as requested by the Honorable Members of the house. Equally so, once members were not too enthused or satisfied with the kind of presentation that was done, I am of the view that some of the questions that were queried were quite legitimate.”
Daniel Amartey Anim
The Economist intimated that although the outcome wasn’t what was expected, the lawmakers asked legitimate questions which he will commend. He noted that to him, it is good for accountability and also good for good governance and transparency.
“Once doubt has been raised, we need to address that doubt by ensuring that the committee interrogates further into how the resources were actually applied.”
Daniel Amartey Anim
According to Mr. Anim, the setting up of a committee to address the issue of accountability by the Finance Minister, is the way forward. He indicated that he will expect the committee to do a very good job.
“I don’t see why the Minority should be blamed. If you have been given GHS100 and it has been applied accordingly, whether they set a committee or not, you will just justify why the money has been used and that ends it.”
Daniel Amartey Anim
Minority raised candid opinions
Daniel Anim averred that, the Minority raised candid opinions which in his personal view, ought to be addressed. “In terms of financial management, I see it to be professionally sound questions that ought to be addressed by the Finance Ministry.”
Mr. Anim intimated that, if the expenditure the Finance Minister read before Parliament truly reflects what the funds used for, he does not have a problem and sees nothing wrong with the Minister’s presentation.
“Unless otherwise, it has been bloated. I am not veering into that realm except otherwise verified by the committee or any other body established by the state. The items outlined by the Finance Minister, clearly demonstrates what the resources were applied on or the reasons which the resources were applied.”
Daniel Amartey Anim
In his perspective, Mr. Anim posited that the management of the COVID-19 funds by government has been very fantastic.
“Certain decisions were taken of course. By the nature of the pandemic, no prudent person will request for straight comparison of cost and try to find out the least cost. So, the issue for determination is whether or not, whatever resources were provided, were genuinely provided and they could account for that.”
Daniel Amartey Anim
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