Coronavirus: We shall demand an audit of all funds received into Relief Fund - Minority

The Minority has demanded an account of how the COVID-19 Relief Fund has been disbursed.

It is the case of the Minority that the claims by the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) of using Ghc2 million daily to feed the vulnerable during the lockdown period must be investigated.

Addressing the press on Thursday, Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu said they shall insist on full transparency and an audit of all the funds received.

"The Minority urges Government to ensure a high level of accountability with the funds and donations they have thus far received in the fight against COVID-19. Claims by NADMO of spending GHS2 million a day on feeding an opaque number of Ghanaians during the lockdown would not be allowed to pass. May we serve notice that we shall insist on full transparency and a thorough audit of all funds received,” he said.

He advised the president not to take hasty decisions in easing the restrictions for political reasons.

”On the basis of the evidence available, evidence based on the science and driven by sound epidemiological data, the Minority wishes to advise President Akufo-Addo to tread cautiously and not take decisions to ease restrictions just to satisfy narrow political ends. This is a time for health care professionals, civil society, religious leaders and traditional rulers to be adults in the room offering guidance and fearless advice for the sake of the country. Nothing can be more important than the value which we must place on human lives.”

He continued: ”Let us all return to the table of science and be guided by same. I commend all Ghanaians for the difficult sacrifices we have all been willing to bear for our collective protection. Please it is important that we all continue to adhere strictly to the hygiene and social distancing protocols.

In that regard, Government should make provision for the vulnerable in our society by providing them with free face masks. We disagree with the Health Minister when we assumes every Ghanaian can afford and that every Ghanaian knows where to find the appropriate face mask to purchase. Some MPs have been able to support the vulnerable with free face masks and we believe Government has no excuse to abdicate.

Let us soldier on. With sincerity towards scientific data and genuine solidarity for all our compatriots, COVID-19 shall be defeated,” he concluded.