The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has formally petitioned the Right to Information Commission (RTIC) regarding the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD). This action follows the CAGD's refusal to release information on salary deductions for the 'Mahama Cares' fund. The fund received GHS 4.2 billion from public appointees who missed asset declaration deadlines.
The CAGD denied the MFWA's request for details on these deductions, citing confidentiality concerns. The MFWA's investigative project, The Fourth Estate, sought names of defaulting appointees and the total amounts paid. This information is crucial for public accountability regarding the enforcement of asset declaration rules.
This dispute occurs amidst Ghana's ongoing efforts to combat corruption and enhance public sector transparency. Asset declaration is a key tool under Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution and the Public Office Holders Act, Act 550. The lack of transparency around these deductions raises questions about the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures and public trust in government institutions. Previous instances of government agencies withholding information have fueled public skepticism about accountability.
Emelia Osei Derkyi, Deputy Controller for Finance and Administration at CAGD, stated the information was exempt from disclosure. She cited Section 11(1)(d) of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989). Ms. Derkyi argued that releasing individual details could breach confidentiality and deter future cooperation. She acknowledged the public interest but prioritized the trust under which the data was provided.
The RTIC's decision will significantly impact the future of public information access in Ghana. It will determine whether confidentiality clauses can override the public's right to know about financial penalties for public officials. Observers will watch closely to see if the Commission upholds the spirit of the RTI Act. This ruling could set a precedent for similar transparency requests concerning public funds and official conduct. The outcome will influence how citizens perceive the government's commitment to fighting corruption.
President John Mahama announced the 'Mahama Cares' fund in May 2025. This followed a Fourth Estate investigation revealing 55 appointees missed a March 31, 2025 asset declaration deadline. The President mandated a three-month salary deduction for defaulters, plus an additional voluntary one-month contribution. This meant a total of four months' salary for those who failed to comply. The fund was established to support treatment for chronic illnesses like cancer and kidney failure. The President also warned that any appointee failing to declare assets by May 7, 2025, would face dismissal. This demonstrated a strong stance against non-compliance with asset declaration rules. The total amount collected, GHS 4.2 billion, represents a significant sum intended for public welfare. However, the lack of detailed information on its collection and the individuals involved undermines the transparency of the initiative. The MFWA's petition seeks to clarify whether these punitive measures were fully enforced. It also aims to ensure public funds are managed with complete openness. The RTIC's intervention is critical for upholding the principles of good governance and public accountability in Ghana.