President John Dramani Mahama has questioned the commitment of the Akufo-Addo led government in the fight against corruption.
Transparency International’s latest report released January 30, 2024 revealed that Ghana has maintained a score of 43 for the fourth consecutive year, ranking 70th out of 180 countries and territories assessed.
President Mahama did not mince words in criticizing the current administration, led by President Akufo-Addo, alleging a lack of genuine commitment to eradicating corruption.
“The Ghana Integrity initiative just released a report and it says that there has been zero improvement in the past four years in the fight against corruption. It is clear that this government is not interested in the fight against corruption. Those who are engaged in corruption are the people closest to him [President]. It says that we scored 43 out of hundred and we ranked 70th in 2023. It means that we’ve not made any effort in fighting corruption”.
He specifically questioned the effectiveness of the Office of the Special Prosecutor, expressing disappointment in its handling of cases involving individuals closely connected to the government.
Citing the Ghana Integrity Initiative’s report, Mahama highlighted the correlation between Ghana’s anti-corruption stagnation and a declining justice system.
According to the report, the weakened justice system diminishes the accountability of public officials, creating an environment conducive to corrupt practices.
“This is at the time when we have the Office of Special Prosecutor. Suddenly they say a special prosecutor should return all Cecilia Dapaah’s money to her and then the explanation they gave was that a special prosecutor cannot handle money laundering cases so what was the need to establish the Office of the special prosecutor. I know why it was established. It was established to go after political opponents. Unfortunately a special prosecutor is investigating everybody and now that it is biting their own people suddenly the Special Prosecutor cannot do this and that,” Mahama said.
President John Mahama said this during a town hall meeting with Professional bodies in Koforidua as part of the 2-day tour of Eastern Region.
The Flagbearer of NDC John Mahama pledged to intensify efforts in the fight against corruption, stating that the government’s lack of action has led to a desensitized population where instances of corruption no longer elicit the shock they once did.
Mr. Mahama accused the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) that despite widespread corruption,it is concocting schemes to embezzle public funds.
He specifically called out the handling of the SML agreement, declaring that, if elected, his government would neither accept nor recognize it.
Parliament is currently investigating the agreement, with President Akufo Addo seeking an audit from KPMG.
However, Mahama remains resolute in rejecting any agreements tied to the SML and promises accountability for funds already disbursed.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Kojo Ansah
