In a recent town hall event during the #BuildingGhanaTour in Koforidua, President John Mahama reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to combat corruption in Ghana. Addressing the audience, he specifically highlighted the controversial SML contract and declared that his government would not recognize the agreement signed at the behest of the Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta.
This statement comes at a crucial time, as Ghana has received a score of zero for the fourth consecutive year in the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2023 released by Transparency International. The report by the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) revealed that Ghana scored 43 out of 100 and ranked 70th out of 180 countries and territories included in the index. This stagnation in anti-corruption efforts is a cause for concern and requires immediate attention.
President Mahama emphasized his administration's firm stance against corruption and expressed accountability for funds disbursed under the controversial contract. He stated, "For the monies they’ve taken already, we will hold all of them to account." His strong stance on combating corruption resonates with various segments of the Ghanaian population, who seek assurance and action against pervasive corrupt practices.
Transparency International attributed Ghana’s stagnation in combating corruption to the deteriorating justice system, which is reducing the accountability of public officials and allowing corruption to thrive. The need for urgent measures to address this issue is evident, and both the Executive and the Legislature are called upon to bridge legal gaps necessary for the prosecution of corruption cases.
As the 2024 flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), President Mahama's commitment to tackling corruption continues to be a focal point of his engagement with the public during the #BuildingGhanaTour. The tour serves as a platform for him to reinforce his dedication to combatting corruption for the overall betterment of the nation.
It is imperative for all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and citizens, to work together in implementing effective measures to address corruption and strengthen accountability. The fight against corruption requires collective efforts and a steadfast commitment to upholding integrity and transparency in governance.
Moving forward, it is essential for Ghana to prioritize reforms that enhance the justice system and ensure that public officials are held accountable for their actions. By doing so, Ghana can make significant strides in combatting corruption and fostering a climate of trust and good governance for its citizens.
-By Mercy Kuma | Ghana Crimes
