Bright Simons reveals 5 Shocking Details in KPMG Report on GRA-SML Deal

IMANI Africa Vice President, Bright Simons, has unveiled five shocking details from the KPMG audit report on the contentious contracts and transactions between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Strategic Mobilisation Limited (SML).

The comprehensive report, spanning over 300 pages, was made public on May 22, 2024, following weeks of anticipation after the presidency initially declined to release it, citing provisions of the Right To Information (RTI) law.

Simons, a vocal advocate for transparency, highlighted significant findings that shed light on the GRA-SML deal, surpassing previous revelations based on earlier reports.

In a series of social media posts, Simons outlined the bombshell revelations from his preliminary analysis of the report:

a. SML received nearly 1.5 billion cedis in payments, contradicting the presidency’s earlier claim of 1 billion.

b. KPMG observed the positive impact of taxes on revenue increase, suggesting it wasn’t solely attributable to SML’s efforts.

c. SML’s touted flowmeters failed to function as specified throughout the contract duration.

d. SML reportedly evaded taxes on its fees received from GRA.

e. The Ministry of Finance deliberately avoided conducting a Value for Money evaluation.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo ultimately decided to release the extensive audit report after initially withholding it.

The decision to publish the report in its entirety was motivated by the President’s commitment to transparency, openness, and honesty with the public.

The KPMG inquiry was commissioned by the President on December 29, 2023, to comprehensively investigate the controversies surrounding the GRA-SML contracts and transactions.

Although the presidency initially cited exemptions under the RTI Act to justify withholding the report, public pressure and advocacy efforts compelled the release of the findings.

Simons’ revelations add new dimensions to the ongoing scrutiny of the GRA-SML deal, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in governance.