Pink sheet audit: KPMG must be ethical - Group

A pro-government group, Inside Ghana has cautioned international accounting firm KPMG to uphold the highest ethical standards in auditing the pink sheets referred to the firm by the Supreme Court hearing the election petition.

In a statement signed by Convener George Spencer Quaye, the group said it believes the audit will bring closure to the controversy over the number of pink sheets tendered in Court by the Petitioners and thus, KPMG must demonstrate utmost professionalism in carrying out the audit.

“Inside Ghana is, therefore, calling on KPMG, to uphold the highest professional and ethical standards in accounting and auditing the pink sheets, as this is important for the determination of the case”, the group noted.

The group said, its caution stems from the important role KPMG has to play in the election petition as a Referee.

“Their role as a referee in this case is as crucial and important as the case itself as any hints of bias on their part could affect the ruling and jeopardize the stability of the country”, the group warned.

It said: “We take cognizance of their involvement with the Ghana Music Awards were music lovers and followers have expressed utmost disappointment in the choice of winners. Though we appreciate that could not be entirely down to their work, the perception about them manipulating votes to favour the organizer’s choice is very rife among Ghanaians”.

“Without any prejudice, we, therefore, urge them to uphold and demonstrate the highest form of professionalism and ethics in counting and auditing the pink sheets and exhibits.

Inside Ghana noted that as stated in their mission statement; “Outstanding professionals, working together to deliver value”, “we call on partners and staff of KPMG Ghana to live up to this and deliver value for the good people of Ghana. If they are to achieve their vision of becoming leaders in the markets they serve is in, then this is the opportunity to do just that”.