The Finance Committee of Parliament has recommended the suspension of all payments related to the government’s contract with SML starting from the beginning of next year.
This decision comes as part of a broader move to conduct a thorough parliamentary probe into the said contract.
The committee asserts that, upon a comprehensive review of the contract, it has become apparent that parliamentary approval, in accordance with the Financial Management Act, is necessary.
Consequently, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) is expected to be duly notified about this statutory requirement.
This development unfolded during the deliberations on the budget approval concerning various government obligations for the upcoming year, 2024.
Speaking on behalf of the Minority, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson addressed journalists regarding the contract, stating, “As part of the report, the Parliament of the Republic of Ghana has resolved that the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) must immediately stop all payments to SML beginning January 1, 2024.”
He continued, “Again, parliament resolves that GRA must be aware that the contract that the Ministry of Finance has with SML constitutes a multi-year commitment and section 33 of the Public Financial Management Act is clear on the matter that all multi-year commitments must be presented to parliament for consideration and approval.”
Highlighting the current status of the contract, Dr. Ato Forson emphasized, “So the contract in its current shape is not valid and must come to Parliament for approval. It is also important to note that the same Finance Committee working with Parliament has resolved to initiate a probe into the SML. I urge the Committee of Finance to conduct this probe diligently and in a manner that will show transparency.”