The Public Accounts Committee has issued an order for the arrest of the Director of the Northern Regional National Sports Authority (NSA) due to the misappropriation of GH¢160,000

Parliament’s directive for the arrest of the Northern Regional Director of the National Sports Authority (NSA) has stirred significant controversy and concern over financial mismanagement within the organization. The issue revolves around the failure to deposit a substantial amount of internally generated funds, totaling over GH¢160,000, into the designated Consolidated Fund Transit account of the Authority.

The gravity of the situation is underscored by the findings of the 2022 Auditor General’s report, which specifically highlights the unauthorized expenditure of these funds by the Northern Regional Management of the Sports Authority. Such actions blatantly contravene the Public Financial Management Regulations established in 2019, raising serious questions about accountability and transparency within the organization.

Despite being formally summoned, the Regional Director has failed to honor the request to appear before the Public Accounts Committee, thereby evading the opportunity to provide an explanation for the reported financial irregularities. This lack of cooperation has only exacerbated the situation, prompting the committee chairman to take decisive action.

In response to the Director’s non-compliance and apparent disregard for parliamentary oversight, the committee has issued a directive for the immediate arrest of both the regional director and the accountant responsible for the financial mismanagement. The seriousness of the matter is reflected in the chairman’s statement, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the need for swift accountability.

“We are instructing the police to apprehend the regional director and accountant of the region without delay,” stated the committee chairman. “Despite being invited to testify before Parliament, you declined to appear, despite knowing that you had misused over GH¢160,000, apparently hoping to avoid consequences.”

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding financial integrity and adhering to established regulations, particularly within public institutions entrusted with managing taxpayer funds. It also highlights the crucial role of parliamentary oversight in holding accountable those responsible for safeguarding public resources.