President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghana’s newly sworn-in Auditor-General, Dr. Graham, to discharge her duties with courage, fairness and independence, stressing that her loyalty must remain with the Constitution and the people of Ghana.
Speaking during Dr. Graham’s swearing-in ceremony at the Presidency, President Mahama described the event as more than a constitutional requirement, saying it reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sound public financial management.
He noted that the Office of the Auditor-General plays a critical role in protecting public funds and ensuring that state resources are used efficiently and responsibly.
According to the President, the responsibilities of the Auditor-General extend beyond auditing government accounts. He said the office helps build public confidence in state institutions, promotes prudent financial management, deters waste and corruption, and assures Parliament and Ghanaians that public officials are held accountable for every cedi spent.
President Mahama observed that Ghanaians now expect higher standards of transparency and accountability from public institutions. He expressed confidence that Dr. Graham’s professional experience has prepared her well for the office and encouraged her to remain guided by facts, evidence and the law in carrying out her mandate.
“As you assume office today, you do so not in service to any government, political party or individual, but in service to the Constitution and the people of Ghana,” he said.
The President stressed that the independence of the Auditor-General’s office is fundamental to maintaining public confidence in the country’s governance system and must be safeguarded at all times.
He also reminded all public institutions that accountability is a constitutional responsibility, not a matter of discretion.
“Every Ministry, Department and Agency, every Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assembly, every state-owned enterprise and every public official must recognise that accountability is not optional; it is a constitutional obligation,” he stated.
President Mahama explained that the government’s economic recovery agenda, including plans to improve domestic revenue mobilisation, expand infrastructure, increase exports and implement the 24-Hour Economy policy, depends on the transparent and efficient management of public resources.
To strengthen the Ghana Audit Service, he pledged continued government support through investments in technology, digital systems, staff training and institutional reforms.
The President further urged public institutions to cooperate fully with the Auditor-General and act on audit recommendations, saying audit reports should serve as practical tools for improving governance, strengthening internal controls and reducing waste.
He also paid tribute to the outgoing Auditor-General for his service to the nation and his contribution to improving public accountability.
Congratulating Dr. Graham on her appointment, President Mahama encouraged her to build on the institution’s achievements by leading with professionalism, integrity and humility.
He concluded by expressing confidence that her leadership would strengthen public trust in state institutions and help safeguard the interests of Ghanaian taxpayers.
