Ghana's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has directed the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to aggressively pursue unpaid taxes from public institutions and private businesses. This directive specifically targets entities named in the Auditor-General's reports, urging the GRA to verify and collect outstanding payments.
The committee's call comes as the GRA announced it had surpassed its tax collection targets by the end of September. Chairperson Abena Osei Asare commended both the GRA and the Auditor-General for their work. However, she emphasized the need for increased openness in tax collection processes, ensuring taxpayers only pay legally mandated amounts.
This push for tax recovery is critical for Ghana's public finances, which face ongoing challenges in revenue mobilization. The government relies heavily on tax income to fund essential services and reduce its budget deficit. Persistent issues with tax compliance, especially among state-owned enterprises, contribute to revenue shortfalls and hinder economic stability.
The PAC's engagement with various state entities highlights a broader effort to improve financial accountability. During recent hearings, representatives from the National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) appeared before the committee. The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition, along with its agencies, is scheduled to follow.
A notable development involved the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The PAC praised ECG for repaying GHS 1.3 billion of the GHS 1.4 billion in taxes it owed to the GRA. This repayment addresses tax irregularities identified in the 2025 Auditor-General's Report, demonstrating progress in resolving long-standing debts.
The committee also met with officials from the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). NPA Chief Executive Officer Godwin Kudzo Tameklo reported significant progress in addressing licensing irregularities. He stated that as of May 2026, 93% of required vehicle licenses had been obtained. The remaining 7% of unlicensed vehicles have been suspended, indicating strict enforcement.
Mr. Tameklo also issued a public caution against siphoning fuel from tankers involved in road accidents. He stressed that this practice is illegal and carries severe legal penalties. This warning underscores efforts to prevent illicit activities and ensure public safety.
Furthermore, the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Petroleum Commission, Nasir Alfa Mohammed, reaffirmed the commission's commitment to regulatory compliance. He assured the PAC that appropriate sanctions, including administrative penalties, would be imposed on individuals and entities breaching the law. This commitment reinforces the government's stance on upholding regulatory standards.
Ghana National Gas Company's Chief Executive Officer, Judith Adjobah Blay, provided explanations regarding unoccupied office properties in Kumasi and Takoradi. She also outlined pipeline safety awareness measures designed to prevent illegal mining, known as galamsey, from encroaching on critical infrastructure. Madam Blay assured the committee that the company's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Senior High School infrastructure projects would be completed by year-end. The PAC urged the company to either utilize or dispose of the unused properties effectively.
The PAC's continued scrutiny of public institutions and their financial obligations is vital for strengthening Ghana's fiscal discipline. Recovering these substantial tax arrears could significantly boost government revenue. This ongoing oversight aims to foster greater transparency and accountability across state-owned enterprises and other public bodies.