The flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has made a resolute declaration that if elected president in the forthcoming December polls, he will not shield his appointees involved in corrupt practices.
During a dialogue with members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Mr. Mahama emphasized the importance of demanding accountability from leaders for the taxes paid by citizens.
He outlined his plans to establish an independent valuation office aimed at preventing sole sourcing and procurement irregularities.
Addressing concerns about the misuse of taxpayers’ money, Mr. Mahama stated, “One of the reasons why you are suffering in terms of imposition of revenue and taxes is because of the expenditure side. If the government is raising the money and misusing it through sole sourcing, procurement and so forth, it is your taxpayers’ money that is being wasted and so we must take an interest in that and that is why I have suggested that we are going to have an independent valuation office and any sole sourcing contract must go for value-for-money audit to make sure that it has not been inflated.”
Additionally, Mr. Mahama underscored the necessity of combating corruption and empowering anti-corruption institutions to function effectively.
He pledged not to interfere if investigations by institutions like EOCO or OSP reveal misconduct among his ministers.
Mr. Mahama emphasized his commitment to holding his administration accountable and ensuring that those found guilty of wrongdoing are held responsible, signaling a firm stance against corruption within his government if elected.
“Aside from that, we must make sure that we cut down on corruption and allow the anti-corruption institutions to work.
“If people have taken advantage of the country, they must be dealt with, and that is why I said when I come into the office and I am swearing in the ministers, I will caution them, and if they don’t listen and do not do their work well and EOCO or OSP come after you, I am not a clearing agent and I won’t interfere and I will let them do their work,” Mr Mahama said.