Vitus Azeem, a prominent anti-corruption advocate, has raised alarm over President Akufo-Addo’s move to extend the tenure of Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu by two years, citing potential implications for the country’s anti-graft efforts.
According to a notification from the Audit Service on July 19, the contract extension allows Mr. Asiedu to remain in office past his originally scheduled retirement date of August 1, 2024, effectively granting him an additional two years in the role.
However, Mr. Azeem contends that the contract extension compromises the Auditor-General’s independence, creating a perception of political influence and eroding trust in the institution’s ability to conduct impartial audits.
Vitus Azeem reasoned that the extension creates a perception of bias, suggesting that the Auditor-General may be beholden to the President and his appointees, potentially leading to favorable treatment and compromised audit outcomes.
“People will go out with the perception that the current man is playing ball with the President and his appointees… and that he is going to please the President and his appointees”.
Vitus Azeem
Mr. Azeem also drew parallels to the contentious departure of Dr. Daniel Yao Domelevo, the former Auditor-General who was forced out in 2020 amidst disputes over his age and tenure, highlighting the ongoing pattern of controversy surrounding the appointment and removal of Auditors-General.
Mr. Azeem further alleged that the extension is a calculated move by President Akufo-Addo to shield himself and his allies from future scrutiny, ensuring that the Auditor-General remains beholden to him even after he leaves office, and thereby avoiding any potential audits or investigations into their tenure.
Vitus Azeem conceded that the constitution allows for extensions of certain officials, but argued that the dubious circumstances surrounding this particular extension undermine the government’s credibility in upholding a genuinely independent and effective anti-corruption framework, raising legitimate concerns about its true commitment to combating corruption.
Cudjoe Questions Akufo-Addo’s Motives In Extending Auditor-General’s Term
Franklin Cudjoe, founder, and president of IMANI Africa, also joined the chorus of critics questioning President Akufo-Addo’s controversial decision to extend the tenure of Auditor-General Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu, expressing concerns about the potential implications for the country’s anti-corruption efforts.
Franklin Cudjoe expressed his dismay, however, he indicated that he was not surprised, at the President’s decision, suggesting that it is consistent with Akufo-Addo’s established pattern of behavior, which prioritizes political loyalty over institutional independence and accountability.
Franklin Cudjoe challenged the rationale behind extending Asiedu’s tenure, wondering if the Auditor-General is the sole individual possessing the expertise to manage audit responsibilities, implying that capable alternatives may exist.
While Cudjoe credited Asiedu’s competence, he contended that the extension is a short-sighted decision that sacrifices long-term institutional health for short-term convenience and that it’s essential to infuse the organization with new blood and perspectives to drive meaningful change.
“I mean he kicks out people who are doing hard work and then rewards people who even are due for their time and then gives them extensions and all that. Look, this is a very lame way of trying to fight corruption. I mean this man will be forever happy that the president has given an extension for two years”.
“I mean, if the people are going, just let them go, there are many people who are equally qualified, let them come in as well. Why? Is he the only person who can handle audit issues? I’m not saying he’s not a good man, he’s a good guy, but if he’s up for retirement…they should let the man go”.
Franklin Cudjoe
He challenged the President’s motives, wondering what the rationale is behind extending the Auditor-General’s term by two years, and then potentially again, suggesting that this piecemeal approach may be a tactic to maintain control and undermine the institution’s independence.
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