The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to solving the issue of "ghost names" on the public payroll, as reported by myjoyonline.com.

According to him, the government has actively been tackling the issue by constantly examining the payroll database to ensure accuracy.

“Through the Ghana Card, we have made significant strides in eliminating ghost names from government payrolls. Our first operation targeted the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT), where we identified and removed 29,000 ghost names, saving GH¢400 million," he stated

Dr. Bawumia also said that only legal and authorised employees should receive payments from government.

He added that the process of eliminating ghost names is underway to safeguard public resources.

The NPP flagbearer, in his speech during a tour in the Awutu Senya West Constituency, highlighted the importance of a clean payroll system as part the governments wide anti-corruption agenda.

He added that removing illegal names does not only help the country save money but also enhances the efficiency of government operations.

Dr Bawumia reassured Ghanaians of the governments dedication to combating all forms of corruption, including the prevailing issue of “ghost names,” which he views as an important step in promoting accountability and transparency in Ghana's public financial systems.

He further stated, “Similarly, the National Service Scheme saw 44,000 ghost personnel removed, resulting in savings of over GH¢300 million. The Controller and Accountant General has since removed all ghost names from the government payroll.

“Today, we can confidently assert that the Ghana Card has helped eradicate ghost names from our government’s payroll."

The fraudulent entries of “ghost names" which has robbed the country of funds for years remains a key target of reform efforts aimed at improving financial management and restoring public trust.

RAD/AE