The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has directed Stephen Akomeah, a teacher from Donkorkrom, to refund GHC17,703.28 that was wrongly paid to him as transport allowance for physically challenged teachers. Despite having no disabilities, Akomeah received the allowance for three years, prompting the PAC to take swift action.
The Incident
The irregular payment was highlighted in the Auditor-General’s report, which flagged the matter for investigation. During the PAC’s meeting on August 22, Deputy Minister of Education, Clement Apaak, described the case as “a clear act of criminality” that should have been reported earlier. Apaak expressed concern over systemic lapses that allowed such wrongful payments to go undetected ¹ ².
Refund Directive
PAC Chair Abena Osei Asare has directed the Donkorkrom District Education Director and Accountant to recover the full amount within 30 days. “We want the money recovered, and so, madam District Director of Education and your Accountant, we ask that within 30 days, GHC17,703.28 must be paid into the Auditor General’s Recovery Account,” she ordereD.
Implications
This incident raises questions about the effectiveness of the current system in monitoring and verifying disability claims. The PAC’s action aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the allocation of resources meant for persons with disabilities.