Akatsi: The Akatsi South Municipal Assembly has established a five-member ad-hoc committee to delve into alleged financial irregularities associated with the Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) Programme within the Municipality. This action comes in response to a petition filed by Assembly Members concerning possible financial misconduct in the programme's administration by the Municipal Department of Social Welfare and Community Development.
According to Ghana News Agency, a letter dated June 22 and signed by Mr. Issah Umar, the Municipal Coordinating Director on behalf of the Municipal Chief Executive, has tasked the committee with uncovering the details of these allegations and providing recommendations to management. The allegations focus on the management of LEAP funds and the processes involved in disbursing payments to beneficiaries and focal persons.
The unfolding situation has led to increased demands for a meticulous investigation to verify the allegations and protect the integrity of this key social protection initiative by the government. The committee, led by Mr. Francis Lotsu and including Ms. Sophia Ansah-Awukuba, Mr. Samuel Gomashie, Mr. Michael Banga, and Ms. Rosalyn Agyemang, who will act as Member and Secretary, respectively, has been charged with several responsibilities.
Their mandate includes probing the alleged financial mismanagement involving Mr. Felix Sagah, the Municipal Director of Social Welfare and Community Development, specifically regarding LEAP payments. The committee is also tasked with reviewing all pertinent payment records and transactions, interviewing relevant officers, beneficiaries, and stakeholders, scrutinizing payment processes related to LEAP focal persons, and identifying any procedural lapses.
The committee has a 14-day deadline from the time they receive their appointment letters to compile a detailed report with their findings and recommendations for management. The Assembly has emphasized the importance of conducting the investigation with care, fairness, and confidentiality to uphold transparency, accountability, and professionalism.