The government’s payroll system is the subject of an inquiry, according to the Office of the Special Prosecutor.

The OSP reported in its half-year report, which was made public on December 29, 2023, that the goals of its review and inquiry are to retrieve payments that were made in error and remove names that do not exist.

It issued a warning, saying that anyone suspected of committing any crime will face legal action.

“The Office has commenced corruption risk assessment and investigation into suspected corruption and corruption-related offences in respect of the Government of Ghana payroll administration. The assessment and investigation are especially aimed at isolating and removing non-existent names, recovering wrongful payments, and the prosecution of persons suspected to be culpable for any offence(s).”

In order to carry out the inquiry, the OSP made it clear that it is working with the Controller and Accountant General’s Department.

According to OSP’s report, “a joint project team of selected staff of the two institutions has been formed for the purpose.”

The OSP further stated that all banks and workers paid by the government are the subject of its inquiry and evaluation.

The exercise is being carried out in two phases. Phase I covers the Ghana Education Service and the health institutions. Phase II covers all other Metropolitan/Municipal/District Assemblies, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.”