Retaining Auditor-General after retirement a lame way of fighting corruption – Franklin Cudjoe

The President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has criticised the president’s extension of the appointment of the Auditor-General, Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu, for two more years.

In a notice dated June 19 and addressed to all staff members of the Ghana Audit Service, Mr Asiedu was congratulated on the extension of his appointment.

The notice said the Auditor-General was due for retirement on August 1, 2024.

Reacting to the announcement, Mr Cudjoe said he was not surprised by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s decision since it was not a first of its kind.

However, he said some equally qualified persons could occupy the position, adding that this will not help in the nation’s fight against corruption.

“Look, this is a very lame way of trying to fight corruption. I mean this man will be forever happy that the president has given an extension for two years. I mean, if the people are going, just let them go. There are many people who are equally qualified. Let them come in as well.

READ ALSO: Akufo-Addo Extends Auditor-General’s Appointment Beyond Retirement Date

“Why? Is he the only person who can handle audit issues? I’m not saying he’s not a good man, he’s a good guy, but if he’s up for retirement…they should let the man go. What is the business of extending to two years and then so on?” he questioned.

Mr. Asiedu’s appointment took effect on August 27, 2021, following the retirement of his boss, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, in 2020.

He became the ninth A-G of Ghana since the position of Auditor-General was first created in 1951 and the fifth A-G of the Fourth Republic.

Until his appointment, Mr. Asiedu was the Deputy Auditor-General responsible for the Public Boards, Corporations and other statutory agencies. He was first appointed to act in July 2020.

He joined the Ghana Audit Service in December 2004 as an Assistant Auditor-General and Head of the Internal Audit Unit.