INTERNAL AUDIT AGENCY AND THE CONTROL OF CORRUPTION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: A CASE OF HO MUNICIPAL ASSEMBLY AND AKATSI SOUTH DISTRICT ASSEMBLY

Abstract

The effectiveness of internal audit helps develop the work of the company because the financial reports reflect the internal audit department's quality. The study sought to find out the current practices and involvement of the Internal Audit Agency in controlling corruption among MDAs and MMDAs in the public Sector of Ghana using Ho Municipal Assembly and Akatsi South District Assembly as a case study. The specific objectives of the study were to identify the current Internal Audit Agency practices used in controlling corruption among MDAs and MMDAs, to examine the functions of the Internal Audit Agency in controlling corruption among MDAs and MMDAs, and to identify some of the challenges of internal audit among MDAs and MMDAs in controlling corruption. Data was collected from 26 respondents from both assemblies. Findings revealed that, the work environment of internal auditors in both 'organizations was conducive. Also, attitude of management towards implementation of audit reports, provision of internal audit staff with appropriate remunerations and resources were identified as some factors affecting internal audit functions. Further, lack of independence of internal audit staff, unclear internal audit policies, and low skill level among internal audit staff were some of the challenges faced by both organizations with regards to internal audit activities. Based on the findings, it was recommended that since internal auditors in both study organizations had conducive work environments, they must ensure they effectively carry out their assigned duties and responsibilities as expected of them. Also, top management of both organizations must continue to support internal audit activities and provide appropriate resources and remunerations for staff. Finally, internal auditors must be given the autonomy needed to enable them undertake their duties efficiently.