CAGD implements salary freeze for public sector workers without Ghana Card effective February 2024
In a significant move aimed at curbing fraudulent activities within the public sector, the Controller and Accountant General’s Department (CAGD) has issued a directive effective February 2024. According to the directive, all public sector workers who do not possess Ghana Cards will have their salaries frozen.
This stringent measure is part of the government’s broader strategy to eliminate ghost names from the public payroll, a persistent issue that has long plagued the efficiency of financial management in the public sector.
The decision was made following discussions between the CAGD and the National Identification Authority (NIA). The dialogue, held on October 11, 2023, focused on the implementation of a special registration exercise for individuals who had not yet acquired the Ghana Card. However, subsequent to the meeting, a miscommunication arose, leading the CAGD to seek consent and agreement from the NIA regarding proposed timelines for the exercise.
In response, the NIA clarified that they had already communicated their inability to conduct a special registration exercise. Instead, the NIA opted for a nationwide general registration, commencing on September 4, 2023. Notably, this initiative includes a targeted focus on public sector employees currently on the government payroll.
In light of these developments, the CAGD has issued a crucial advisory to its staff and members, urging them to promptly register for Ghana Cards at any of the 292 NIA offices nationwide. The emphasis on government employees underscores the priority placed on ensuring compliance with the new directive.
This directive marks a significant step in the government’s commitment to streamlining public sector operations, enhancing data accuracy, and fortifying financial integrity. However, it also raises considerations about the potential impact on individuals who may face challenges in obtaining the Ghana Card within the stipulated timeframe. The success of this initiative will depend on the efficiency of the registration process and the collaboration between the CAGD and the NIA in ensuring a smooth implementation.
