Drama unfolded at the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting on February 5, 2024, as the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Professor Peter Twumasi, and the NSA’s chief accountant faced intense scrutiny during regarding the lodgement of funds received by the institution during the Christmas festivities.
The interrogation, led by Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam Nartey George, and Committee Chairman, James Klutse Avedzi, exposed discrepancies in the handling of funds totaling GHS250,000 raised from renting out facilities at the Accra Sports Stadium during the Christmas period.
Sam George disclosed that checks amounting to GHS250,000 were received from various entities for non-sporting activities at the Accra Sports Stadium in 2023.
He questioned whether these funds were deposited into the NSA’s central account as required or if they were split between regional accounts.
The NSA’s chief accountant admitted that part of the funds was lodged in Accra while the remainder was deposited in Kumasi, citing the issuance of invoices as the reason for the split. However, his responses failed to satisfy the committee’s inquiries.
Chairman Avedzi intervened, expressing dissatisfaction with the explanations provided and characterizing the situation as “a mess.”
He recommended further investigation and corrective measures to address the apparent irregularities in fund management within the NSA.
During the hearing, Professor Twumasi attempted to clarify the matter but faced challenges in convincing the committee members regarding the rationale behind the payment allocations.
In light of the revelations, the committee emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the management of public funds, particularly within government agencies such as the NSA. The findings from the hearing will be included in the committee’s report, with potential recommendations for remedial action to rectify the identified deficiencies in financial management practices within the NSA.
As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders await the committee’s report and any subsequent actions aimed at ensuring proper oversight and accountability in the handling of public funds by government institutions.