By Celestine Avi and Seth Eyiah
President John Dramani Mahama has sworn in Dr. Pamela Graham as Ghana’s new Auditor-General, urging her to discharge her constitutional mandate with independence, courage and integrity while safeguarding the nation’s public resources.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony at the Presidency, President Mahama described the appointment as more than a constitutional formality, saying it reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sound public financial management.
“The swearing-in of an Auditor-General is not merely a ceremonial occasion. It is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the Constitution, the rule of law and the principles of transparency and accountability that underpin every successful democracy,” he said.
The President stressed that the Office of the Auditor-General remains one of the country’s most important accountability institutions, entrusted with ensuring that public funds are managed lawfully, efficiently and in the best interest of Ghanaians.
He noted that beyond auditing government accounts, the institution plays a vital role in promoting prudent financial management, deterring corruption and waste, and strengthening public confidence in state institutions.
“In a developing economy where every public investment must deliver measurable benefits, the role of the Auditor-General becomes even more critical,” President Mahama stated, adding that effective auditing also boosts investor confidence and reinforces good governance.
Congratulating Dr. Graham on her appointment, the President acknowledged the high expectations of Ghanaians for greater transparency and prudent stewardship of national resources.
“As you assume office today, you do so not in service to any government, political party or individual, but in service to the Constitution and the people of Ghana,” he emphasized.
President Mahama urged the new Auditor-General to ensure that every audit report is guided by facts, evidence and the law, stressing that the credibility of the office depends on objectivity, fairness and professionalism.
He also paid tribute to the outgoing Auditor-General for his dedicated service and contribution to strengthening public accountability in Ghana.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Ghana Audit Service through investments in modern audit technologies, digital systems, institutional reforms and capacity building to improve its effectiveness.
He further called on all Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies, state-owned enterprises and public officials to fully cooperate with the Auditor-General and promptly implement audit recommendations.
“Accountability is not optional; it is a constitutional obligation,” President Mahama declared.
He said strong institutions remain central to the government’s economic recovery agenda, including efforts to restore macroeconomic stability, improve domestic revenue mobilisation, implement the 24-Hour Economy, expand exports, strengthen social investments and accelerate infrastructure development.
President Mahama concluded by urging Dr. Graham to preserve and modernise the legacy of the Audit Service through independent, fair and courageous leadership.
“The strength of every democracy is measured not only by those who govern but also by the institutions that hold governments accountable,” he said.
