The Akatsi South Municipal Assembly has constituted a five-member ad-hoc committee to investigate alleged financial irregularities in the implementation of the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme within the Municipality.
The move followed a petition submitted by some Assembly Members concerning alleged financial impropriety in the administration of the social intervention programme by the Municipal Department of Social Welfare and Community Development.
A letter dated June 22, and signed by Mr Issah Umar, Municipal Coordinating Director, for the Municipal Chief Executive, said the committee had been tasked to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and make recommendations to management.
The allegations reportedly centre on the handling of LEAP funds and payment processes involving beneficiaries and focal persons.
The development has prompted calls for a thorough investigation to ascertain the facts and safeguard the integrity of the government’s flagship social protection intervention.
The committee is chaired by Mr Francis Lotsu and comprises Ms Sophia Ansah-Awukuba, Mr Samuel Gomashie, Mr Michael Banga and Ms Rosalyn Agyemang, who would serve as Member and Secretary.
Its terms of reference include investigating the alleged financial irregularities involving Mr Felix Sagah, the Municipal Director of Social Welfare and Community Development in relation to LEAP payments and examining all relevant payment records and transactions.
The committee is also expected to interview officers, beneficiaries and other stakeholders deemed necessary, examine all payment-related issues concerning LEAP focal persons, identify lapses in the payment process and recommend appropriate corrective measures.
The committee has been given 14 days from the receipt of the appointment letter to submit a comprehensive report containing its findings and recommendations to management.
The Assembly urged the committee members to undertake the assignment with diligence, impartiality and confidentiality to ensure transparency, accountability and professionalism in the conduct of the investigation.
GNA
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