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Speaker Bagbin Hails Niger’s Democratic Rebirth, Pledges Ghana’s Continued Support
Speaker of Ghana’s Parliament, Rt. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has commended the Republic of Niger for inaugurating its Consultative Council for Rebuilding, describing it as a historic and people-centered step toward national renewal and participatory governance.
He made the remarks during an official visit to Niamey on Saturday, June 28, where he delivered a solidarity message on behalf of Parliament, and the people of Ghana.
Speaking at the high-profile event, the Speaker emphasized the deep-rooted ties between Ghana and Niger, grounded in shared history, regional solidarity, and mutual aspirations for peace, justice, and development.
He noted that Niger’s decision to engage diverse segments of society in rebuilding the nation echoes Ghana’s own democratic journey, particularly under former President Jerry John Rawlings, who led similar efforts through broad-based consultations to restore constitutional rule.
Speaker Bagbin urged members of Niger’s newly inaugurated Council to approach their task with wisdom, justice, and a firm commitment to the common good, reminding them that they carry the hopes and aspirations not just of Nigeriens but of an entire sub-region seeking peace and reform.
He also extended an invitation to the Council to observe Ghana’s ongoing constitutional review process as a means of mutual learning and shared democratic growth.
Reaffirming Ghana’s unwavering support, the Speaker pledged Ghana’s readiness to partner with Niger through shared experiences, technical assistance, and sustained diplomatic engagement.
He concluded by expressing optimism that the Council will stand as a beacon of hope and an enduring symbol of unity for Niger and the West African region at large.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) today commenced its second Zonal Public Hearing in Kumasi Ashanti Region to examine the 2024 Auditor-General’s Report on public schools and District Assemblies yesterday, April 20, 2026.
In her opening remarks, the Chairperson of the Committee, Abena Osei Asare noted that the Committee will consider four (4) Auditor – General’s reports, namely, District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) & Other Statutory Funds, The Accounts of District Assemblies for the Financial Year (IGF), Pre-University Education Institutions and lastly Colleges of Education in the year ending 31st December 2024.
She assured the various District Assemblies and other institutions invited to respond to infractions cited in the Auditor-General’s report that the Committee would be transparent in asking questions as well as granting opportunities to all to explain issues to the Committee.
Abena Osei Asare, allowed the Ranking Member of the Committee, Samuel Atta Mills to chair the sitting with the explanation that her government was in power then, therefore she could not chair over Auditor-General reports of 2024.
The Ghana Audit Service has issued a correction to its Auditor General’s report on the nationwide payroll audit, clarifying that a GH¢427,995,661.40 figure wrongly attributed to a public servant was due to a transpositional error.
In a press release dated April 21, 2026, the Service explained that the amount earlier linked to Frank Oliver Kpodo does not belong to him.
It stated that the figure rather relates to unaccounted staff under the Ministry of Education during the payroll audit covering the period from January 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025.
The Service expressed concern over media reports that cited Mr Kpodo as having received the amount as unearned salary, stressing that the attribution was an error.
It offered an unreserved apology to Mr Kpodo for the distress and public scrutiny the mistake may have caused.
The Service also apologised to the Government, the people of Ghana, and the Controller and Accountant General’s Department for the error.
According to the corrected report, the GH¢427.9 million is linked to 3,476 unaccounted staff under the Ministry of Education, making it the highest figure recorded in the audit.
The nationwide payroll audit covered 6,270 records across several public institutions, with a total salary value of GH¢801,808,427.04.
Other institutions captured in the report include the Judicial Service of Ghana, the Electoral Commission of Ghana, and the Ministry of Health, among others.
The Audit Service noted that the corrected summary has been provided to ensure accuracy and maintain public trust in its work.
It reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and transparency in the management of public funds.
By: Jacob Aggrey
