Ghana’s Revenue Chief Set to Confront Special Prosecutor Over $500 Million SML Contract Inquiry
Accra, Ghana – In a significant development concerning financial probity, the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Anthony Kwasi Sarpong, is poised to engage with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) this Friday, June 27, 2025. This highly anticipated meeting is part of the ongoing investigation into the contentious Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) scandal, a matter that has drawn considerable public scrutiny and is reported to involve over $500 million in contracts. The engagement underscores the nation’s steadfast commitment to upholding financial accountability and transparency within its public institutions.
While the core of the SML contract controversy predates Mr. Sarpong’s tenure as GRA Commissioner-General, his insights are deemed crucial by the OSP. This stems from his previous role as a senior partner at KPMG, the renowned auditing firm that was commissioned by then-President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to conduct an extensive investigative audit into the SML contracts with both the GRA and the Ministry of Finance. His firsthand knowledge from this strategic audit is expected to provide invaluable context to the OSP’s comprehensive probe.
Unpacking the SML Controversy
At the heart of the OSP’s investigation are suspected corruption and related offenses linked to various revenue assurance contracts between the Ghana Revenue Authority and Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited. These contracts are designed to enhance the nation’s revenue collection capabilities, particularly in sectors vital for economic growth. The alleged irregularities surrounding these agreements have raised serious questions about the judicious use of public funds and the integrity of the procurement processes. Given Ghana’s ambitions for digital transformation in its revenue collection systems, ensuring the data integrity and transparency of such high-value contracts is paramount for public trust and investor confidence.
The KPMG Connection and Sarpong’s Role
The OSP’s decision to summon Mr. Sarpong, despite the scandal having origins before his current appointment, highlights the interconnectedness of corporate and public service roles. As a former senior partner at KPMG, he was integral to the independent audit commissioned to scrutinize the SML deal. This audit was a direct response to public concerns regarding the value for money and the contractual terms of SML’s engagement. His past involvement equips him with unique institutional memory and technical understanding, which could shed light on the initial findings, recommendations, or any red flags identified during KPMG’s comprehensive review. This makes his testimony critical for the OSP’s ongoing efforts to piece together the full narrative of the alleged malfeasance.
Broader Implications and Ongoing Investigations
The OSP’s meticulous investigation into the SML scandal has already led to significant actions, including the earlier arrest of former Commissioner-General Reverend Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah. Also apprehended were Isaac Crentsil, a former Commissioner of Customs who now serves as General Manager at SML, among others. These arrests signal the Special Prosecutor’s unwavering resolve to pursue all individuals implicated in corrupt practices, irrespective of their former or current positions. The outcome of this high-profile case could set a crucial precedent for corporate governance and public sector accountability in Ghana, reinforcing the message that financial impropriety will be met with the full force of the law.
As Mr. Sarpong prepares for his appearance, the nation watches intently. This proceeding is not merely about an individual but about reinforcing the pillars of integrity, accountability, and the rule of law in Ghana’s economic landscape. The OSP’s continued diligence in unearthing the truth behind the SML scandal is vital for safeguarding public funds and ensuring that revenue assurance contracts genuinely serve the national interest.
Keywords
Related Keywords: GRA SML scandal, OSP GRA investigation, New GRA boss SML, 500 million SML controversy, Ghana revenue scandal, Office of Special Prosecutor SML, SML contract scandal, GRA boss accountability, Corruption allegations Ghana, OSP investigation SML deal
