President John Dramani Mahama has announced a manhunt for suspects linked to the National Service ghost names scandal, some of whom are believed to have fled the country.
Delivering his first State of the Nation Address in his second term on Thursday, February 27, President Mahama revealed that more than 80,000 fraudulent names had been added to the National Service payroll, potentially siphoning over GHS 50 million a month in public funds.
“Such brazen theft of public funds must be stopped and punished,” he declared, adding that he had instructed investigative agencies to track down and prosecute those responsible.
Authorities have been directed to declare absconded suspects wanted and trace and freeze their assets until investigations are completed. “No one involved in this scandal will be allowed to escape justice,” the president assured.
To prevent future abuses, President Mahama announced plans to strengthen regulations governing the National Service Scheme. He has tasked the Minister for Youth Development and Empowerment with drafting a Legislative Instrument (LI) to support the newly enacted National Service Authority Act 2024 (Act 1119).
Additionally, the president outlined a proposal to introduce short military training as part of the national service program. “This will instill a sense of fitness and discipline into our youth,” he stated.
