President Akufo-Addo’s prejudicial comments on all major corruption investigations under his leadership have made it difficult for independent bodies to carry out investigations to uncover significant cases through media exposure. According to reports, the leadership of the New Patriotic Party has failed the country and independent bodies in fighting corruption. Former Central Regional Minister and Member of Parliament for Mfantseman, Aquinas Tawiah Quansah, expressed this sentiment on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. He contends that the president’s leadership is weak, lacking credibility and a genuine commitment to combating corruption.
Quansah emphasizes that merely establishing anti-corruption institutions without proper structures and human capital to fight corruption only highlights the president’s incompetence in addressing the corruption issues facing the country. Ghana’s ranking in the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index, where it placed 70th among 180 countries, underscores the gravity of the situation. The term “Clearing Agents” given to the current president seems fitting, reflecting his perceived failure to effectively challenge corruption nationwide.
In response to allegations by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and John Mahama that he is a ‘clearing agent’ regarding the fight against corruption, President Akufo-Addo refuted the claims. He asserts that his administration strictly adheres to public procurement laws, ensuring that public resources are judiciously utilized for the benefit of all Ghanaians.
During the commissioning of ‘The Law House,’ a new office accommodation for the Attorney General and Ministry of Justice in Accra, President Akufo-Addo reiterated his commitment to due process and the rules of natural justice in the fight against corruption. Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, echoed the need for full digitalization of the office’s operations to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in delivering legal services. Dame emphasized the importance of transitioning to a modernized, fully digitized working environment to streamline processes and improve service delivery.
Story by: AYM Kukah
