The Head of Corporate Affairs at the National Identification Authority (NIA), Mr. Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas has strongly condemned allegations that some staff members have been engaging in corrupt practices by soliciting bribes and unauthorized payments from applicants seeking Ghana Cards.
In an interview with Citizen Kofi Owusu on Ahotor FM, Mr. Darlas revealed that reports from regional and premium registration centres indicate that certain staff members are exploiting the high demand for the Ghana Card. “Some of the staff are said to be demanding money from applicants before processing their cards,” he stated.
He emphasized the critical importance of the Ghana Card in accessing essential services, saying, “Nowadays, you can hardly do anything without the Ghana Card. Applicants, therefore, feel compelled to pay when asked because they need the card urgently.”
Mr. Darlas also addressed the long queues observed at some premium centres, suggesting that delays may be intentional. “We have received reports that long queues are deliberately created at some centres. This creates frustration, and applicants are more likely to pay for shortcuts to expedite their registration,” he said.
The NIA Corporate Affairs Head urged staff to remain professional and committed to their duty, regardless of personal challenges. “We understand that everyone faces problems, but these should not be transferred to applicants. Our primary duty is to serve the nation with integrity and fairness,” he added.
Mr. Darlas assured the public that the NIA is taking steps to address these concerns and ensure that applicants receive the services they deserve without extortion or undue delays. He encouraged citizens to report any instances of misconduct by staff to the appropriate authorities for swift action.
The Head of Corporate Affairs at the National Identification Authority (NIA), Mr. Williams Ampomah Emmanuel Darlas has issued a strong warning to staff members involved in soliciting bribes from applicants during the registration process for the Ghana Card.
Mr. Darlas made it clear that while the current caution serves as a preliminary warning, any staff member caught engaging in such unethical practices will face severe consequences. “This is a warning to all our staff. If you are caught taking bribes from applicants, there will be no leniency. Immediate dismissal will follow, and this will serve as a clear message to others contemplating such misconduct,” he stated firmly.
He stressed the NIA’s commitment to upholding integrity and professionalism in its operations, emphasizing that the fight against bribery and corruption is non-negotiable. “We will not tolerate any actions that tarnish the image of the NIA or undermine the trust of the public. Dismissal will not only serve as punishment for the offenders but also as a deterrent to those who have made up their minds to engage in such acts,” Mr. Darlas added.
He called on staff to prioritize their duty to the nation and adhere to the highest ethical standards, reminding them that the Ghana Card registration process is a critical national exercise. Additionally, he encouraged applicants to report any instances of bribery or misconduct to the appropriate authorities for swift action.
The NIA is determined to address these allegations and ensure that all applicants receive fair and transparent services without undue exploitation.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
