The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has instructed the Deputy Head of Human Resources at the Ministry of Environment, Science, and Technology, Ibrahim Muniru, to repay GHC31,847.00 after findings in the Auditor-General’s Report revealed he validated salaries for an absentee staff member.
The report showed that Abdul Hakeem Iddrisu, an employee of the ministry, abandoned his post and was absent for 109 working days between March and August 2024, despite receiving two formal queries from his supervisor.
Despite these warnings, Mr. Muniru continued to authorise salary payments, a decision the Committee described as a violation of financial and administrative rules. He has been given 90 days to refund the amount.
During the Committee’s sitting on Wednesday, October 1, Chairperson Abena Osei-Asare criticised the HR officer for ignoring clear red flags.
Ranking Member Samuel Atta-Mills also stressed that the money must be repaid in full, directing auditors to ensure compliance within the 90-day deadline.
Author: Jasmine Adjei
Development journalist
