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Transparency and Accountability in Local Government Financial Management in Ghana: A Case of Sunyani West Municipal Assembly

Author

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  • Timothy Masuni Nagriwum

    (School of Finance and Economics, Jiangsu University, Jiangsu, China)

  • Wiredu Richard

    (School of Business, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana)

  • Sufyan Sannah Gbolo

    (School of Finance and Economics, Jiangsu University, Jiangsu, China)

  • Matthew Kuunyig

    (School of Finance and Economics, Jiangsu University, Jiangsu, China)

  • Donkor Seth

    (School of Business, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana)

  • Miranda Abeseyine Amokase

    (Department of Accountancy, Sunyani Technical University, Sunyani, Ghana)

Abstract

The research aims at the financial management practices of Ghana’s local governments for transparency and accountability. Since a lack of transparency can result in a lack of confidence in the government and its employees, it seeks to evaluate the degree of accountability and transparency in these practices. The management of resources, which is essential for effective governance, is the responsibility of local councils working with the state government. An online survey and quantitative research methods were employed in the study of the Sunyani West Municipal Assembly. A 150-person sample was taken from a population of 241. SPSS, the T-Test, and ANOVA were used to analyze the data. The assembly displays significant financial statements, promptly prepares annual accounts, and makes procurement plan completion data available to the public, according to the results. Respondents, however, disapproved of the real-time procurement data shown on e-procurement platforms. The gathering encourages financial management accountability and establishes performance standards, ensuring financial management accountability. The study discovered that the assembly’s activities do not promote value for money or whistleblower protection. While respondents have different opinions on financial management practices’ transparency, they do have similar views on responsibility. Although the assembly is transparent, it is not accountable. The study suggests that budget execution reports be made public that stakeholders be invited to provide input during budget preparation, and that value for money be taken into account during the procurement process. In the assembly, this would support accountability and transparency.

Suggested Citation

  • Timothy Masuni Nagriwum & Wiredu Richard & Sufyan Sannah Gbolo & Matthew Kuunyig & Donkor Seth & Miranda Abeseyine Amokase, 2023. "Transparency and Accountability in Local Government Financial Management in Ghana: A Case of Sunyani West Municipal Assembly," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 7(9), pages 689-710, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:7:y:2023:i:9:p:689-710
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    References listed on IDEAS

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