The Auditor-General’s latest report has uncovered a significant discrepancy involving the non-delivery of three million male condoms and contraceptives valued at GH¢1.34 million to the Regional Medical Stores (RMS) in the Eastern Region. The focal point of the investigation is Joe Gyaten, the driver entrusted with transporting these essential health supplies.
The incident dates back to August 22, 2022, when Gyaten was assigned to deliver the contraceptives, which included 120,000 vials of Depo-Provera, to the RMS. However, the entire consignment never reached its destination, and Gyaten has been unable to account for the missing items since then.
The Auditor-General’s inquiry, under Section 96 of the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921), mandates action against individuals responsible for deficiencies or losses of government property. This includes potential penalties such as imprisonment or fines upon conviction.
The report, which scrutinized financial activities across various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), revealed staggering irregularities amounting to GH¢2.41 billion in 2023. These irregularities encompassed cash discrepancies, tax issues, payroll anomalies, and significant procurement lapses.
Regarding the missing contraceptives, investigations conducted through the Temporary Central Medical Stores Requisition and Issue Voucher uncovered Gyaten’s failure to fulfill his delivery obligations. The whereabouts of the contraceptives remain unknown, raising concerns of misappropriation or mismanagement of public resources.
Consequently, the Auditor-General has directed the Ministry of Health’s Chief Director to ensure recovery of the GH¢1.34 million from Gyaten. Failure to comply would hold responsible officials personally liable for the debt.
In response, the Ministry of Health has escalated the matter to the Health Intelligence Unit for further investigation in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigations Department.
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