The Executive Director of the Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA), Mr. Mensah Thompson has commended the work of the ORAL Committee, chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for their dedication and impactful findings.
In an interview with Citizen Kofi Owusu on Ahotor FM, Mr. Thompson highlighted the committee’s commitment, noting that they devoted nearly two months of unpaid work to investigate matters of national interest. He emphasized the significance of such dedication, stating it reflects a shift in the leadership’s approach to tackling governance issues.
Mr. Thompson contrasted this with practices under the previous administration, where contracts for similar investigations cost the state significant sums of money. He mentioned that a private company hired by the former government for a similar investigation received a payment of $1 million. In contrast, the ORAL Committee has delivered substantial results without any remuneration.
“This shows a change in leadership direction,” he remarked. “Had the government not entrusted this task to the ORAL Committee, much of the state lands might have been lost forever.”
Mr. Musah Thompson expressed his satisfaction with the steps taken by the government in the fight against corruption, describing them as a significant move in the right direction. He acknowledged that while the measures implemented over the past month may not entirely eradicate corruption, they have the potential to significantly reduce it and make it less appealing.
He emphasized the importance of celebrating the progress made, however small, as it marks a shift in the country’s approach to tackling corruption. “So far, we are satisfied with the progress we’ve achieved. It’s clear that the fight against corruption is taking a new direction,” Mr. Thompson remarked.
He also noted that a strong message has been sent to public officials, reinforcing that corruption will not be tolerated. “Government officials now understand that engaging in corrupt practices will result in immediate dismissal. The President has made it clear that he will not act as a ‘clearing agent’ for corrupt appointees. He has warned his team that any interference or involvement in corruption will lead to their removal from office,” he added.
Mr. Thompson called for continued vigilance and support for the government’s efforts, stressing that even small victories in the fight against corruption should be recognized as steps toward building a more transparent and accountable system.
He concluded by urging the government to prioritize accountability and transparency, taking cues from the exemplary work of the ORAL Committee.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson
