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Tag: corruption

  • I’ve never engaged in corruption and I never intend to – Alan Kyerematen

    I’ve never engaged in corruption and I never intend to – Alan Kyerematen

    The Leader of the Alliance for Revolutionary Change (ARC), Alan Kyerematen, has firmly asserted his commitment to integrity, stating that he has never participated in corrupt activities throughout his political career.

    Addressing the issue, he emphasized that corruption is something he vehemently opposes and ensures it does not occur under his leadership.

    “If I say I’ve never been corrupt and I’ll never be corrupt, I’m not corrupt now, in all, it’s to say the matter speaks for itself. I’ve never taken a bribe, it will not even happen. How is it going to happen? In fact, I don’t want us to use all our time.

    “I don’t want us to use all our time to talk about this but if a politician in Africa is able to say categorically with the full force of the energy that he has to say that I’ve never been corrupt, I’ll never be corrupt, what further testimony do you require?” he stated.

    Meanwhile, the Movement for Change (M4C), founded by Kyerematen, recently forged a significant partnership with the National Interest Movement (NIM), a political civil society coalition led by Dr. Michael Abu Sakara Foster, former flagbearer of the Convention People’s Party (CPP), among others.

    This collaboration, known as the ‘Alliance for Revolutionary Change’ (ARC), aims to actively engage Ghanaians nationwide, particularly focusing on mobilizing youth and women from various religious, political, and ethnic backgrounds.

    The ultimate aim of the ARC is to establish a strong coalition to elect the first independent candidate as President of the Republic of Ghana.

    In a statement dated April 4, 2024, signed by its founder, Alan Kyerematen, the M4C outlined the alliance’s mission, emphasizing its commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty and implementing transformative measures to propel the nation towards prosperity.

  • Kwesi Nyantakyi, Cecilia Dapaah, 2 others should be incarcerated for corruption – Scott Bolshevik

    Kwesi Nyantakyi, Cecilia Dapaah, 2 others should be incarcerated for corruption – Scott Bolshevik

    Renowned financial analyst and historian Scott Bolshevik has accused several government appointees of corruption and called for their incarceration.


    Among those named are a former president of the Ghana Football Association Kwesi Nyantakyi, former sanitation minister, Cecilia Dapaah, Health Minister, Kwaku Agyemang-Manu, and the Governor of Bank of Ghana (BoG), Ernest Addison.


    Scottbolshevik alleges that these individuals possess incriminating evidence that could lead to severe legal repercussions, including potential death sentences in China.


    Scottbolshevik’s assertions come amidst ongoing efforts by the government of Ghana, led by President Akufo Addo, to combat corruption.


    “Taking to the X platform, he argued that if President Akufo Addo is genuinely committed to fighting corruption, these government appointees should face legal consequences for their alleged misdeeds.

    These are some few government appointees who should have been incarcerated if his excellency Akufo Addo of Ghana is really genuinely interested in fighting corruption. They all have incriminating evidence that could send them to jail or even death sentence in China,” he wrote.

    Scottbolshevik contends that the evidence against these individuals is damning and warrants immediate action from law enforcement authorities.


    He asserted that failure to hold them accountable would undermine the government’s anti-corruption efforts and erode public trust in the justice system.

  • I am not “clearing agent” Akufo-Addo to meddle in corruption fight – Mahama

    I am not “clearing agent” Akufo-Addo to meddle in corruption fight – Mahama

    The National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, has declared that he will not shield his appointees involved in corrupt practices, as done by the current government leadership if elected president in the upcoming December polls.

    Speaking to members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Mr. Mahama urged Ghanaians to demand accountability from their leaders for the taxes they pay.

    “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.

    The NDC has tagged President Akufo-Addo as a clearing agent for failing to ensure his appointees accused of corrupt-related activities are probed. This name tag has however been dismissed by the president who says it is not his mandate to investigate or prosecute corrupt individuals.

    Mahama also mentioned plans to establish an independent valuation office to prevent sole sourcing and procurement infractions if he wins the general elections.

    “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.”

    “Aside from that, we must make sure that we cut down on corruption and allow the anti-corruption institutions to work,” he said.

  • It is sad Akufo-Addo’s Performance Tracker could not track corruption – Joyce Bawah

    It is sad Akufo-Addo’s Performance Tracker could not track corruption – Joyce Bawah

    Special Aide to former President John Dramani Mahama, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, has criticized the Akufo-Addo-led government’s recently launched Performance Tracker, dismissing it as a misguided priority.

    She argued that the tracker fails to address the widespread corruption within the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, which has had a detrimental impact on public finances.

    Madam Bawah insisted that the tracker represents a squandering of limited state resources, as it does not offer transparency regarding the government’s lavish expenditures.

    In a tweet on Thursday, April 11, the former Deputy Transport Minister highlighted that 80% of government projects and contracts are awarded through single-source procurement, alleging that the government practices nepotism by selecting individuals and companies for lucrative contracts.

    She emphasized that Ghanaians had hoped for insights into government performance from the tracker, particularly concerning nepotism and questionable contracts.

    “To my utter surprise and disappointment, the misleading GoG Performance Tracker failed to track the performance of Akufo Addo/Bawumia’s performance on corruption.”

    “What a waste of precious resources! Tell us how you and your boys and girls have perfected the art of corruption.”

    “We are told that 80% of government projects and contracts are single-sourced, and individuals and companies are handpicked by this nepotistic government and awarded juicy contracts,” she posted.

    She further called on the government to prioritize policies aimed at improving the lives of struggling Ghanaians and to halt unnecessary expenditure of state funds.

    “That is what this NPP government should be tracking down and paying back to the now miserably empty public purse,” she added.

    Her remarks come after the government’s launch of the Performance Tracker at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) in Accra on Wednesday, April 10. The platform aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the implementation of government infrastructure projects nationwide.

    Minister of Works and Housing, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, unveiled the Performance Tracker, emphasizing its role in promoting transparency and accountability in infrastructure projects across the nation. He highlighted the tracker’s significance in addressing concerns about project accuracy and reliability, particularly in depicting project outcomes through artist’s impressions.

    During the official launch at GIMPA, Nkrumah noted that the tracker currently contains data on over 13,000 projects nationwide. He also mentioned that the tracker builds upon the foundation laid by the Delivery Tracker introduced by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia in 2020.

  • Ghana’s laws facilitate corrupt activities – GBA PRO

    Ghana’s laws facilitate corrupt activities – GBA PRO

    The Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Saviour Kudze, has voiced concerns regarding the effectiveness of the 1992 constitution in combating corruption in the country.

    During an appearance on JoyNews’ PM Express, Mr. Kudze expressed strong reservations about existing legislation, suggesting that it inadvertently fosters corruption rather than preventing it.

    He highlighted a key flaw in the legal framework, pointing out that both the giver and the receiver of bribes are equally culpable.

    According to Kudze, this approach discourages individuals from reporting corruption, as they may incriminate themselves in the process.

    “Our laws on corruption itself facilitate corruption and I am convinced that unless we re-look at them, we will not go far in the fight against corruption. If you have a law that says the giver and taker of corruption are equally guilty how do you expect to fight corruption with such a law?

    “Do you think, I’d bribe somebody and go and report that I have given a bribe when I know that they will arrest me and arrest the person as well, charge both of us, and possibly jail us?” he quizzed.

    He further continued, “I don’t think that will happen.”

    Corruption has long hindered Ghana’s development, despite numerous efforts to combat it. On a Tuesday show, the GBA PRO emphasized the need for a reassessment of existing laws and a shift in societal values.

    He lamented the current societal trend, where the pursuit of financial gain often outweighs cherished principles and values. Calling for a reevaluation of societal norms, he stressed the importance of returning to fundamental values as a means to address the underlying causes of corruption.

    “And I have also said that it appears as a people we have unconsciously limited our definition of success to material gains. If it is not money then you are not successful. Ask the average Ghanaian, ‘Who is successful?’ and that person will begin to mention material things.

    “So I think we have lost our values, and we have to re-look at it because as individuals who make up society if we have principles and values that we cherish, we shouldn’t be having some of these problems.”

    Mr. Kudze’s comments followed the Chief Justice, Gertrude Tokornoo’s, articulation of her vision for the judicial arm of government. Her vision includes a thorough review of ethical practices to rebuild integrity within the legal system.

  • Ex Nigerian Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele pleads not guilty to fresh charges

    Ex Nigerian Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele pleads not guilty to fresh charges


    Godwin Emefiele, Nigeria’s former Central Bank Governor, pleaded not guilty to 26 new charges filed against him by the country’s financial watchdog.

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) accused Mr. Emefiele of violating exchange rate regulations during his tenure as the head of the central bank.

    He stands accused of improperly allocating $2 billion (£1.5 billion) in foreign exchange without adhering to proper procedures.

    On Monday, the court in Lagos directed that Mr. Emefiele be held in the custody of the watchdog until the case resumes on Thursday.

    Mr. Emefiele is already facing trial on 20 separate charges in a court in the capital Abuja, which include allegations of unlawfully withdrawing $6.2 million from the Central Bank.

    He is the most prominent former official to face corruption charges since President Bola Tinubu assumed office last May.

    His suspension came shortly after Mr. Tinubu criticized a major policy led by Mr. Emefiele during his presidential inauguration address in May, which involved the redesign of the currency, the naira.

  • FLASHBACK: Political party funding is the root cause of corruption in Ghana – Asiedu Nketiah

    FLASHBACK: Political party funding is the root cause of corruption in Ghana – Asiedu Nketiah

    General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, three years ago, expressed concern over the exorbitant cost of running for political office in Ghana.

    He viewed this as a major barrier to combating corruption and believes it poses a threat to Ghana’s democracy, worsening the plight of ordinary citizens.

    “The cost of getting elected into any position in Ghana has increased to an intolerable level and that is the root cause of corruption. So if there is a way, we can do more research in that field and see how we can clean our politics.

    “This will help us to save our democracy because the more the country’s politics became monetized, the more merit is sacrificed’, he said.

    As a solution, he urged all stakeholders, including academia, to conduct research to address this issue and safeguard the country’s democracy.

    Mr. Asiedu Nketiah criticized the recruitment process into the country’s security agencies, highlighting concerns about the potential consequences if the current practices are not revised.

    “If we are not careful and we structure our security services along ethnic, political and religious lines, then we shouldn’t have security at all because by that you are nursing a lion which will come back to consume all of us”, he warned.

    He also voiced concern about individuals posing as religious leaders, whom he described as charlatans, who are threatening politicians and exploiting vulnerable members of society.

    “I see a lot of charlatans emerging in our religious scene threatening politicians that if you do not see me you can not win. We are in a country of poverty and yet the very poor are the people who are being exploited,” he lamented.

    Mr Asiedu Nketiah expressed these views during a stakeholders’ consultative workshop on the development of three new academic programs at the Department of Peace Studies at the University of Cape Coast (UCC).

    The workshop was attended by representatives from the two main political parties, the Electoral Commission, the National Media Commission, the National Labour Commission, the security agencies, members of academia, and the media.

    The three new programs being developed are a PhD, MPhil, and MA in Peace and Development Studies; a PhD, MPhil, and MA in Politics, Peace, and Security; and certificate courses in Mediation.

    Presently, Ghana continues to battle corruption. Per reports, much has not been achieved under the current government.

  • South Africa’s Speaker of Parliament surrenders to police amid corruption probe

    South Africa’s Speaker of Parliament surrenders to police amid corruption probe

    Local media reports, has it that, the Speaker of South Africa’s Parliament, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, has voluntarily presented herself to the Pretoria Central Police as part of an ongoing corruption investigation against her.

    Sources suggest that Mapisa-Nqakula arrived at the police station on Friday morning and is anticipated to make a court appearance later in the day.

    The allegations against her involve accusations of soliciting bribes in exchange for the awarding of contracts during her tenure as Defence Minister.

    Although it remains unclear whether she has been formally arrested, reports indicate that she has submitted urgent court documents to prevent potential detention.

    State broadcaster SABC has also reported that Mapisa-Nqakula is contemplating resigning from her position.

    Earlier, in response to the severity of the allegations, she announced her decision to take special leave from her parliamentary duties, as stated in an official communication from the parliament.

    This development follows a recent raid conducted by an elite police unit at Mapisa-Nqakula’s residence in Johannesburg, during which a thorough search lasting five hours was conducted.

    Despite the accusations, Mapisa-Nqakula asserts her innocence and asserts that she is fully cooperating with the investigative process.

  • Stop creating more institutions that won’t check corruption – Domelevo tells Akufo-Addo

    Stop creating more institutions that won’t check corruption – Domelevo tells Akufo-Addo

    Former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo has voiced his concerns regarding President Akufo-Addo’s establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to combat corruption and related offenses.

    He emphasized that merely creating additional institutions does not guarantee success in the fight against corruption; rather, it requires a commitment from leadership, with ultimate responsibility resting with the President.

    During an interview with Kemenni Amanor on Hot Issues on Sunday, March 17, Domelevo suggested merging the OSP and the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) to enhance the effectiveness of the corruption fight.

    “It is not the number of institutions that we have which will help us do the work. I find it also a bit even disturbing that anytime mister A is not able to do his work, we set up mister B. If mister B too is not able, we put in mister C, so we keep creating several institutions,” Daniel Domelevo said.

    “We have several investigative and financial intelligence units and now we have the OSP. If it is not working, what else are we going to have? Are we going to continue building several institutions, or will we just strengthen the institutions on the ground, mandate them properly, and ensure that they deliver on their mandate?

    “I am of the view that if there was a need for bringing in any other institution, we first look at the existing institution and see the missing link, whether it is the legislation, so those powers could be given to existing institutions,” he added.

    The former Auditor-General also emphasized that establishing multiple independent bodies, much like corruption itself, deprives citizens of the benefits of public funds. He suggested that such actions amount to “engaging in wasteful expenditure.”

    “So, if you are creating too many institutions which are not delivering, you are being wasteful,” he said, adding, “In fact, in South Africa, their law refers to it as wasteful and fruitless expenditure, so if you continue creating a fruitless and wasteful expenditure, it is as bad as corruption.”

    He explained that using the public purse in such a manner deprives it of serving the public interest, which is its intended purpose.

    Additionally, the former Auditor-General refuted claims of being overage and due for retirement, as well as allegations of being born in Togo and therefore not being a Ghanaian.

    When questioned about whether he would accept a reappointment from former President John Mahama if he wins the 2024 general elections, Domelevo replied, “When we get to the river, we will cross it.”

  • Corruption thrives because the system is weak – Domelevo

    Corruption thrives because the system is weak – Domelevo

    Former Auditor-General, Daniel Yao Domelevo, has linked the increase in corruption and corruption-related offenses in the country to inadequate punitive measures and weaknesses in the system to apprehend perpetrators.

    He emphasized that without effective control mechanisms to monitor citizens’ activities, individuals are more likely to exploit the situation.

    Speaking on Hot Issues on Sunday, March 17, Domelevo highlighted that the absence of consequences for financial malpractice can encourage others to engage in similar behavior.

    “Wherever people find opportunities, they would like to misbehave or abuse the opportunity if the controls are not working. And if there are no consequences for financial malpractices, if people think they can get away with it, it will continue,” the former Auditor-General is quoted by 3news.com to have said.

    He added that “the system has not been set up clearly to ensure that it doesn’t matter who you are if you go contrary to the rules, sanctions will be administered on you. That is why I think that the level of impunity is growing all the time.”

    He emphasized that without deterrence for misbehavior, people are more inclined to misbehave.

    Furthermore, he stressed that Ghanaians exhibit respect for rules and proper behavior when in other jurisdictions such as the USA and UK because those systems are effective.

    “The same Ghanaian who travels to London or the US today, without any orientation, starts behaving rightly because he/she knows that this system would not tolerate me,” he stated.

    He continued by stating that the effectiveness of the system starts from the top, which is the President.

    “Discipline cannot be enforced from below, it comes from the top,” adding that “the tone from the top actually determines whether the people are going to take it or not.”

    He also cited Rwanda, where he said, “The tone is clear that if you misbehave, you will face it so everyone is doing what is right.”

    However, the former Auditor-General accused the Akufo-Addo government of selectively applying disciplinary actions in the fight against corruption.

    “The promises or the rhetoric are far higher than what we are seeing on the ground and of course disciplinary measures are swiftly put in place against those who do not belong to the group but there are some people for whom we can clearly see that they are committing atrocities or infractions and they continuously get away with it,” he stated.

  • Commercialise, decentralise anti-corruption efforts, or else corruption will consume all resources— Domelevo

    Commercialise, decentralise anti-corruption efforts, or else corruption will consume all resources— Domelevo

    Former Auditor General Daniel Domelevo, has highlighted the immeasurable impact of corruption on Ghana’s socio-economic progress over the years.

    He suggests commercialising and decentralising the anti-corruption efforts to encompass a broader range of corruption-related crimes and involve more stakeholders, thereby enhancing effectiveness.

    “This would be a more sustainable way to fight these crimes across the country,” he said.

    Domelevo was speaking via Zoom on the theme: Ghana’s 67th “In-Dependence Anniversary: Rescue or Disaster” Anti-Corruption Event, in Accra.

    Crusaders Against Corruption (CACG) organised the event in collaboration with African Business Communication (ABC), TV XYZ, Ghana Good Governance Group (GGGG), and Spio-Garbrah Foundation (S-GF).

    The discussions aimed to find more effective ways to combat corruption and foster good governance.

    Domelevo stated: “We cannot develop when corruption is taking over and consuming all the resources of the country.”

    The former Auditor General emphasised that Ghana’s status as a developing country 67 years post-independence was a result of factors like the absence of a clear economic transformation vision, ineffective leadership, and wasteful use of national resources.

    He stressed the urgent need for national development to enhance the well-being of citizens and society, urging public officials to champion positive change by rejecting corruption and unpatriotic behaviours in favour of upholding the rule of law.

    Furthermore, he urged the government to explore alternative methods of utilising the country’s abundant natural resources for development, rather than solely relying on taxation, which burdens the populace.

    Bishop Dr. Samuel Mensah, a board member of (CACG), echoed these sentiments, attributing Ghana’s challenges more to a lack of critical thinking among leaders than to spiritual issues.

    He highlighted the absence of a concrete long-term national vision and the lack of clear direction from political leaders as significant obstacles to progress.

    To overcome these hurdles, he emphasized the necessity of implementing a comprehensive, non-partisan long-term vision for the nation’s development, similar to the approach taken by Ghana’s counterparts at independence.

    Dr. Ekwow Spio-Garbrah, founder of the Spio-Garbrah Foundation, framed the discussion around whether Ghana had achieved true independence or remained dependent post-1957 on political independence.

  • Corrupt people are ensuring they benefit from the system – GII

    Corrupt people are ensuring they benefit from the system – GII

    Executive Director of Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), Mary Awelana Addah, has expressed a grim outlook on the future, suggesting that corruption will continue to plague the country.

    She highlighted the entrenched nature of corruption in society, particularly among elected politicians, and its detrimental impact on Ghana.

    Mrs. Addah made these remarks during an interview on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on February 28, noting that corruption is evolving, with individuals devising new methods to exploit the system.

    “Corruption is becoming a multi-faceted monster that is increasingly changing faces, and people are using all sorts of means and ways to ensure that they are benefiting from the system,” she noted.

    “We were in Tamale a week ago and some of the sentiments of the youth when it comes to what’s going on, particularly around the election and the crimes that are committed thereof, it become apparent that we cannot keep quiet, we need to talk about the issue. We do not want to sit aloof to watch and then see our country into flames like others have done,“ she added.

    Mrs. Addah emphasized the detachment of politicians from the escalating monetization of elections, highlighting substantial evidence indicating that crime and criminal activities fund certain members of the electorate.

    She explained that the involvement in criminal activities is luring individuals into politics, with the expectation that those who benefit from politics will reciprocate to these individuals.

    “We elect people into power who are sitting there not able to make decisions on our behalf. They make all the promises that when they get into power they will do a lot of good things for us, but then the reality strikes them because they have to repay people who did a lot of wrong things to get them in power.”

    “So we see elements like the CDD did a survey and that survey showed that people in galamsey were funding political actors. Such persons when they support you, they want to legitimise their businesses. So when you come into power certainly you cannot do ot

  • Akufo-Addo’s corrupt nature has become a challenge for him – Suhuyini

    Akufo-Addo’s corrupt nature has become a challenge for him – Suhuyini

    Member of Parliament for Tamale North, Alhassan Suhuyini, has criticized President Akufo-Addo’s performance in combating corruption, attributing the president’s silence on the matter in the 2024 State of the Nation address to his perceived failure.

    Mr Suhuyini expressed his belief that corruption has become a significant challenge for the president, pointing out unfulfilled pledges on enforcing procurement laws and eliminating sole sourcing.

    Mr Suhuyini argued that the level of corruption in Akufo-Addo’s government might surpass even the perception measured by Transparency International, which ranks it as the worst in the fourth republic.

    He added “In his 2017 State of the Nation address, he made a pledge that ‘my government will enforce the procurement law’.  Before that, he also made the pledge to the people of Ghana that sole sourcing would become a thing of the past and that he would use the Anas principle.

    “Today, Anas is fighting for his survival under his watch and the Anas principle is not to be heard within government circles. Today, the level of corruption in his government, I believe the level of corruption is even more than the perception that is measured by Transparency International. The transparency international puts his government as the worst ever in the fourth republic.

    He asserted that the president has shattered the confidence people had in him before assuming office, suggesting that remaining an opposition leader might have been a more favorable path for Akufo-Addo.

    “It is such a tragedy that his excellency Nana Akufo Addo and Dr Mahamudu Bawumia became leaders in this country, the former broadcaster said.

    Offering advice, Suhuyini stated it was too late for the president to heed any counsel, emphasizing that Akufo-Addo’s leadership has eroded public trust.
    “You can speak to Dr Nyaho Tamakloe about it and he will tell you that Nana Akufo-Addo has made him a prophet.”

    The Minority in Parliament, including Minority Leader Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, expressed disappointment over the president’s failure to address the critical unemployment situation in the country during his parliamentary speech.

  • Are you conceding defeat? – Ablakwa chides Akufo-Addo over failed corruption fight

    Are you conceding defeat? – Ablakwa chides Akufo-Addo over failed corruption fight

    North Tongu Member of Parliament, Okudzeto Ablakwa, has sharply criticized President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration over its perceived failure to effectively combat corruption in Ghana. 

    Ablakwa’s remarks come amid growing concerns and public dissatisfaction with the government’s efforts to tackle corruption.

    In a scathing rebuke directed at the President, Ablakwa questioned whether Akufo-Addo‘s administration will now concede defeat in the fight against corruption, given the failed efforts. 

    “Are you conceding defeat?” Ablakwa rhetorically asked, highlighting what he sees as a lack of meaningful action by the government to root out corruption and hold perpetrators accountable.

    Ablakwa’s criticism comes in the wake of numerous corruption scandals that have tarnished the reputation of the Akufo-Addo administration, including the controversial “Galamsey Fraud” saga and allegations of corruption within various state institutions.

    The issue of corruption has been a long-standing challenge in Ghana, with successive governments pledging to tackle the problem but often facing criticism for their perceived inability to make significant progress. 

    Despite promises of zero tolerance for corruption, many Ghanaians feel disillusioned by the persistent allegations of graft and the apparent lack of accountability for those implicated.

    President Akufo-Addo’s administration has yet to respond to Ablakwa’s criticism.

  • There is corruption because of the system – Egyapa Mercer

    There is corruption because of the system – Egyapa Mercer

    Member of Parliament for Sekondi Constituency, Andrew Kofi Egyapa Mercer, has expressed his belief that discussions about corruption should not solely focus on politicians and their actions.

    During an appearance on JoyNews’ AM Show on Wednesday, February 28, 2024, he emphasized that corruption and related activities are not limited to government appointees or officials.

    Mr Mercer highlighted that while some politicians may be involved in corrupt practices, the root cause of the issue lies within Ghana’s institutional system.

    “I am saying that the system itself: you go to the court, you go to customs, you go to the airport, everywhere you go, public service institutions and civil service institutions, people experience corruption on a daily basis in those places,” Mr Mercer said.

    The lawmaker emphasized that President Akufo-Addo’s government has made efforts to combat corruption through digitalization.

    Despite the implementation of technology in various government offices, individuals still manage to engage in corrupt practices, according to Mr. Mercer. However, he quickly pointed out that corruption has decreased as a result of digitalization.

    “Yes, it requires continuous strengthening and continuous improvement, so that, at least if it is not eliminated, it is brought down to the barest minimum. I am saying that is the kind of thing His Excellency, the President, and his government have been doing over the past seven years to try and reduce and potentially eliminate corruption.”

  • You have to be corrupt to maintain your seat; the demands are too much – Zebilla MP

    You have to be corrupt to maintain your seat; the demands are too much – Zebilla MP

    Cletus Avoka, the Member of Parliament for Zebilla, has lamented the undue burden placed on lawmakers, attributing perceived corruption within the Legislature to unreasonable demands from the public and constituents.

    In an interview with Starr FM, Mr Avoka shed light on the financial challenges MPs encounter due to incessant requests for monetary assistance.

    He revealed that the relentless demands make it exceedingly difficult for MPs to abstain from engaging in corrupt practices. Avoka highlighted how many MPs are compelled to divert their attention from legislative duties to address financial obligations.

    Mr Avoka emphasized the necessity for understanding from the media, underscoring how the financial pressures MPs confront, including requests for healthcare expenses, contributions to weddings, and school fees, contribute to the perception of corruption.

    “Everyday MoMo. Everyday MoMo. Somebody is sick and has to go to the hospital, you have to send money, somebody is going to do a wedding you have to send money, they are going to do outdooring, they are asking for you. They are asking for school fees and whatnot.

    “Many of us lose the election or Primaries not because we are not doing well but because we’re not giving money out. How do you give money out if you come and stay in parliament for 8 hours debating? You’re debating for 5 or 8 hours, you go home in the evening to sleep, and the following day you have no money to send. You have to go out and look for the money.”

    When questioned whether this circumstance validates the claim that all MPs are corrupt, Avoka responded in the affirmative.

    He underscored that to sustain their positions, MPs frequently find themselves needing supplementary resources, which may entail pursuing external activities to generate income.

    “If I’m not corrupt, how can I maintain my seat? You have to be corrupt in one way or another. You have to look for more resources. If you have to look for more resources, you have to go out and do some work for a contractor. As a lawyer, maybe prepare a bill, or do this and that and whatnot? So I have half attention here, and half attention outside because I need more resources to be able to maintain my seat.”

  • Akufo-Addo, Bawumia have allowed corruption reach its peak – Martin Amidu

    Akufo-Addo, Bawumia have allowed corruption reach its peak – Martin Amidu

    Former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has criticized President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia for the current state of the country.

    In an editorial published on GhanaWeb, Amidu, a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, accused President Akufo-Addo and Dr. Bawumia of deceiving Ghanaians about their commitment to fighting corruption.

    According to Mr Amidu, corruption has become more widespread during their administration.

    He stated that the president and vice president used his criticism of former President John Dramani Mahama in 2015 to create a false impression that they would combat corruption if elected, leading Ghanaians to vote for them.

    “…I spoke to Joy FM and MultiTV’s news analysis programme, Newsfile, on or about 14 November 2015 which supported the Nana Akufo-Addo/Mahamudu Bawumia pretensions of being incorruptible and the messiahs to stop corruption, nepotism, cronyism, and use our natural resources for the benefit of Ghanaians.

    “Ghanaians believed their pretensions and false promises only to find us swindled as a nation and brought to hunger and deprivation by the duo. Corruption and cronyism have reached an apogee never witnessed in the history of this country,” he wrote.

    Mr Amidu made these remarks while criticizing Nana Akomea, a deputy chairperson and strategist of the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) campaign team, for using his 2015 interview to gain political advantage.

    “It, therefore, smacks of dishonest opportunism to quote what I said in 2015 in the hope of a better alternative offered by the deception of Ghanaians by the Nana Akufo-Addo/Bawumia duo,” he added.

    The current government has been accused of creating a conducive environment for corruption to thrive although it has refuted such claims.

  • PAC Chairman warns GRA boss of legal liability for contract lapse

    PAC Chairman warns GRA boss of legal liability for contract lapse

    Chairman of the Public Accounts Committeet (PAC), James Klutse Avedzi has issued a stern warning to the Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Rev. Ammishadai Owusu-Amoah, cautioning him that he will be personally held liable for working without the renewal of his contract.

    The warning comes in the wake of a public revelation made by Rev. Ammishadai during a parliamentary session, where he disclosed that his two-year contract had expired without renewal. This disclosure followed a tense exchange between the GRA boss and Ningo-Prampram MP, Samuel Nartey George, who had queried Rev. Ammishadai about his age.

    In response to the questioning, Rev. Ammishadai hesitated to provide a straight answer, prompting further scrutiny from committee members. Eventually, he admitted that his contract, granted after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60, had lapsed without renewal.

    Chairman James Klutse Avedzi, in an interview with EIB Network‘s Parliamentary Correspondent Ibrahim Alhassan, emphasized that Rev. Ammishadai would be held accountable if he continued to occupy his position without a valid contract. Avedzi justified his decision to allow the public interest question, asserting that transparency regarding the status of public officers is paramount.

    Furthermore, Avedzi clarified that while individuals above retirement age can be engaged for up to five years, the failure to renew Rev. Ammishadai’s contract raises legal concerns. He questioned why the Commissioner General had not been offered another contract after the expiration of his initial two-year term.

    Despite acknowledging that the GRA boss may not be responsible for the contract renewal process, Avedzi stressed that working without a valid contract constitutes a violation of the law. He underscored that the responsibility for contract renewal lies with the appointing authority, and failure to adhere to legal protocols could result in personal liability for Rev. Ammishadai.

    The warning from the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee highlights the importance of adherence to legal procedures and transparency in public office appointments. It serves as a reminder to public officers of their obligations under the law and the consequences of operating without valid contracts.

  • Dr. Amin Adam urges GRA to address revenue generation gaps at ports

    Dr. Amin Adam urges GRA to address revenue generation gaps at ports

    In the course of a recent meeting with the Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam expressed apprehension regarding the persistently high levels of corruption perceptions at Ghana’s ports.

    Dr. Amin Adam highlighted ongoing revenue losses attributed to the activities of clearing agents, shipping companies, and certain customs officials, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues.

    Assuming office following President Akufo-Addo’s ministerial reshuffle on February 14, Dr. Amin Adam emphasized the crucial need to close existing loopholes to optimize revenue generation for national development.

    In his visit to the GRA on Monday, February 19, Dr. Amin Adam stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to improve transparency and efficiency in revenue collection processes.

    “It is also time to roll out and expand the E-VAT mechanism, despite whatever challenges exist. We saw the potential collections from the Pilot Phase. We cannot continue to prolong and delay the implementation, especially under the programme.

    “We must also work with renewed urgency towards reducing human contact in the revenue processes and introduce a faceless assessment system. This is a sure way to give taxpayers a great experience and boost revenue mobilisation.”

    “Commissioner-General, as you may be aware, the perception of corruption in the ports of trade and entry remains very high. I have seen reports that tend to confirm some of these perceptions.

    “And I know you all have received similar reports. We continue to lose revenue through the actions and inactions of clearing agents, shipping companies, and some of our own customs officials.”

    Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam further emphasized that Ghana faces significant challenges if it does not fulfill certain tax obligations necessary to meet targets set by the International Monetary Fund.

    He urged the Ghana Revenue Authority to take proactive measures to address any deficiencies in revenue generation processes.

    “The Barekese and Owabi WTPs as well as the Achiase Booster Station have been experiencing power outages in the last few weeks. This has made it difficult to produce and transmit potable water to our cherished customers and the public,” said a statement from the company.

    The water company says its management has notified the ECG of the challenges, as it “counts on ECG to improve power supply to all GWL installations in the region to enable GWL to serve the metropolis with the constant flow of water. Management regrets the inconvenience the challenge may have caused”.

  • Your reshuffle will not miraculously solve Ghanaians’ suffering and uncontrolled corruption – Minority tells Akufo-Addo

    Your reshuffle will not miraculously solve Ghanaians’ suffering and uncontrolled corruption – Minority tells Akufo-Addo

    The Minority in Parliament has strongly criticized President Akufo-Addo’s recent ministerial reshuffle, describing it as uninspiring and long overdue.

    Members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) expressed their dissatisfaction, arguing that the reshuffle fails to effectively tackle the current economic challenges facing the nation.

    In a press release issued by Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, they condemned the President’s governance approach, expressing doubt that the reshuffle would address the deep-rooted economic difficulties associated with Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and his Economic Management Team.

    “It is also too little too late, coming barely nine (9) months to the exit of the government. Neither will it solve the suffering and hardships confronting the people of Ghana as a result of the bad governance and massive uncontrolled corruption of the Akufo-Addo and Alhaji Bawumia’s government.”

    “These injury time reserves, who have been on the bench for more than seven years without warm-up, cannot make any meaningful impact in the remaining nine (9) months to salvage the sinking ship and the massive economic mess created by Alhaji Bawumia and his economic mismanagement team.”

    The Minority further highlighted that President Akufo-Addo’s administration has been characterized by extravagant spending and the depletion of state resources.

    “The tenure of this government has been characterised by excessive borrowing, unsustainable debt, an economic crisis, high appetite for taxes, poor governance, reckless and wasteful expenditures, siphoning of state resources into private pockets of government appointees, as well as state capture by family and friends of the President and his Vice.”

    After facing public pressure for months, President Akufo-Addo has made adjustments to his government.

    These changes come a month after the resignations of former Trade Minister Alan Kyerematen and Agriculture Minister Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto, who stepped down to focus on their political campaigns.

    In line with the 1992 Constitution, the President officially informed the Speaker of Parliament about the new composition of the government on Tuesday, February 7.

    Several new individuals have been appointed to ministerial positions, while others have been reshuffled to different ministries.

    MINORITY-STATEMENT-ON-MINISTERIAL-RESCHUFLLE-Download
    Reshuffle-list-1-1Download
  • Bribery and corruption will worsen if NSS is made optional – Apaak

    Bribery and corruption will worsen if NSS is made optional – Apaak

    Ranking Member on the Education Committee of Parliament, Dr. Clement Apaak, has expressed strong opposition to the proposal made by the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to make the one-year mandatory National Service optional.

    According to Dr. Apaak, such a move would only serve to create opportunities for bribery and corruption to thrive.

    In addition to concerns about corruption, Dr. Apaak also highlighted that making National Service optional would not foster a sense of patriotism among Ghanaian students upon completion of their tertiary education.

    Dr. Bawumia had announced his vision for the country during an event in Accra on Wednesday, where he outlined plans to make National Service optional if elected president in the upcoming general elections.

    “I believe it is time to rethink the concept of our current national service scheme. My government will propose that those who, after completion of their education, can secure jobs, would be exempted from national service. National service will no longer be mandatory, and students will have the option to decide whether to do national service. This will also encourage companies to go to campuses for recruitment annually,” Dr. Bawumia said.

    However, Dr. Apaak remains unconvinced about the potential benefits of this proposed policy change.

    But speaking to Citi News, Dr. Clement Apaak said the implementation of such a proposal will only create a favourable exemption opportunity for the children of the political elite.

    “What it will essentially do is introduce optional service in place of National Service, and once it becomes optional, it also creates the avenue for bribery and corruption. We all know the value of doing National Service, and we know that the National Service certificate plays a very important role, especially for those of us who will want to go into public service.”

    “Time without number, you may have heard persons who have been nominated for ministerial positions being asked by the Appointments Committee where they did their National Service and whether they have certificates and so by saying that we are going to make it optional, you are totally destroying what we know and replacing it with a system that will only exempt the sons and daughters of the political elite.”

  • I can combat corruption, trust me – Bawumia to Ghanaians

    I can combat corruption, trust me – Bawumia to Ghanaians

    The flagbearer of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has declared that if elected as President in the upcoming December elections, Ghanaians can trust him to combat corruption.

    He emphasized that he has never been implicated in any corruption scandal throughout his life and asserted that his personal integrity qualifies him to address and, if possible, eliminate corruption.

    During a public address on Wednesday, February 7, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra, Dr. Bawumia committed to the digitalization of all state agencies as part of his strategy to curb corruption. He urged the public to consider him as the choice for someone with personal integrity, trustworthiness, and a dedication to fighting corruption.

    Dr. Bawumia further reiterated his commitment to safeguarding the nation’s natural resources for the collective welfare of all citizens. He emphasized his dedication to ensuring that Ghana’s natural resources are utilized for the benefit of its people.

    The current administration has faced criticism for perceived defense of officials accused of corruption, and the Office of the Special Prosecutor, established by the government, has been criticized for not meeting anticipated standards in its anti-corruption efforts.

  • Prof Gyampo’s analysis of Dr Bawumia’s address

    Prof Gyampo’s analysis of Dr Bawumia’s address

    1. This essentially was an articulation of achievements and vision, fundamentally in the broader area of Digitization and honestly, the various manifestations of this overarching policy, and what it can do to promote development, is indubitable and enormous. No doubt it formed the interwoven central theme of the presentation.

    2. Unfortunately, Ghanaians had to wait to be told more about what digitization has done for them by the man himself, in a manner that makes many of the achievements which should have been long known, sound new. Consequently, there may be the need to fact-check many of the claims in order to be sure.

    3. It appears DMB is the only one who has a firm grasp over the policy, as the party itself has either been ignorant about the claims about Digitization or has been incompetent in communicating its achievements to fester in the psyche of Ghanaians. Unless the party begins to undertake remedial tutorials about Digitization and its achievements for the purposes of political communication, the work will be difficult for DMB.

    4. Despite what it can do, Digitization is not the sine qua non to development. Other key interventions such as good governance and deliberate efforts to seal the leakages and slippages, fight corruption, exemplary leadership that first tightens its belt, rather than living bourgeoisie, etc should have been emphasized more than being treated nearly as appendages.

    5. Parts of the presentation was an indictment on the government of which he is part, in a manner that raises serious questions and vindicates those of us who have been critics of the government. Promising to have not more than 50 Ministers when you are part of a government of over 100 Ministers; and promising to abolish some taxes like the Emissions tax, Gaming Tax, E-Levy, VAT on electricity consumption etc makes some of us feel vindicated for criticizing and calling for downsizing of government and the abolition of such nuisance taxes. DMB’s supporters came after us for such criticisms and I am wondering whether they will go after him, now that he’s taken a position that responds favorably to our criticisms on the size of government and nuisance taxes.

    6. But the more important question is, why do these great interventions tomorrow, instead of today that they are greatly needed? Does the answer still lie in the claim that he’s not the one in charge? Well, in that case, then karma is not good at all. There was then absolutely no basis for the 170 questions posed to Veep Amissah-Arthur because, he was also a mate and wasn’t in charge.

    7. DMB still blames our challenges on COVID and Russian-Ukraine war and there is no doubt at all that these have had negative effects on many countries including Ghana. But a more convincing explanation could have also focused on an admission of what was done wrong domestically, and a promise to refrain from our own contributions to the challenges. It cannot be entirely accurate for us to blame all other than ourselves for our challenges.

    8. Finally, there were great ideas that were espoused including the need for a national development plan, a move that was initiated by the predecessor government but was jettisoned. All the other contenders in the 2024 elections also have great plans. But it appears great plans wouldn’t really matter. Available empirical survey reports show that many Ghanaians now, do not believe in political promises, as many of them are merely vote garnering gimmicks. What would therefore be the decider in the 2024 elections, would be a side by side comparison of the trustworthiness, credibility and achievements of the various contenders.

    In my next post, I will now offer a sharper focus and properly interrogate some of the policy vision outlined. Where they deserve commendations, we would commend and where they must be fact-checked and critiqued, we will do so.

  • Kill govt officials found guilty of corruption – Presidential aspirant

    Presidential candidate of the Begin Ghana Party, Edward Ohene Kyei, has proposed the death penalty as a drastic measure to combat corruption in Ghana.

    He argued that just as the death penalty has been utilized for treasonable offenses, it should also be employed as a deterrent against corruption.

    Mr Kyei emphasized that Ghanaians naturally fear death, and the prospect of facing such severe consequences would dissuade individuals from engaging in corrupt activities.

    During an exclusive interview with Dr. Ren on Rainbow Radio 92.4FM in the United Kingdom, he asserted that corruption is rampant in Ghana due to the absence of stringent laws to deter it.

    Mr Kyei pledged to organize a referendum to persuade Ghanaians to vote in favor of implementing the death penalty for all corrupt officials.

    He stated, “Our leaders are visionless and lack the natural love to help Ghana develop. We lack incorruptible leaders, which is why I will urge Ghana’s youth to rise and fight to protect our country from corrupt leaders.

    “We have used the death penalty to combat treason, and we can take the same approach to dealing with corruption. Ghanaians and humans are particularly afraid of death, so we must sentence all corrupt officials to death,” he added.

    Before imposing the death penalty, he proposed that all assets acquired through corrupt means would be confiscated and sold, with the proceeds directed towards Ghana’s development.

    Mr Kyei further criticized Ghanaian politicians, alleging a lack of genuine patriotism and commitment to the nation’s welfare. He highlighted the need for policies promoting job creation, economic growth, healthcare expansion, decentralization, and business development.

    In some countries, like China and North Korea, public officials have been executed or may face death for corruption and other related crimes like bribery.

    In 2011, China sentenced to capital punishment Xu Maiyong, former vice mayor of Hangzhou City, and Jiang Renjie, vice mayor of Suzhou City in 2011. The officials were found guilty of bribery amounting to $50 million.

  • Ghana is slacking due to corruption – Edudzi Tameklo

    Ghana is slacking due to corruption – Edudzi Tameklo

    The Director of the Legal Directorate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Edudzi Tameklo, has emphasized that Ghana’s financial challenges stem not from revenue shortfalls but from the mismanagement and wastage of accrued state revenues.

    In an interview on The Big Issues with Roland Walker on TV3 on February 5, Mr. Tameklo commented on the government’s reported withdrawal of the proposal to impose a 15% VAT on residential electricity consumers.

    The Trades Union Congress (TUC) and affiliated labor unions had announced plans for a nationwide demonstration on February 13 if the government did not reverse the directive by the Ministry of Finance to the Electricity Company of Ghana.

    “Consistent with the dishonest character of this Bawumia/Akufo-Addo administration immediately organized labour said they were going to protest, government’s assigns and hype men decided to go on this trajectory by saying that they were going to drop it.

    “Organized Labour, I want to put before you today that this government is so dishonest that the only reason why they want to drop this 15 percent ECG VAT is simply because of the election ahead and that should you make the mistake of voting for them to remain in power they will go back for this 15 % VAT. This is a government that said in the midst of Covid 19 that they were giving us free water, free electricity, immediately they got elected in 2020 they imposed Covid levy on us,” he said.

    Government sources later revealed that the proposal would not be implemented. According to Mr. Tameklo, “No government has collected more taxes than the Akufo-Addo government. They have obtained substantial revenue from Ghanaians. Our problem is not a lack of revenue; it is pervasive corruption, waste, and the government’s extreme recklessness.”

    He argued that the withdrawal of the VAT is a political maneuver ahead of the 2024 elections. Mr. Tameklo accused the government of being dishonest, stating, “This government is so dishonest that the only reason they want to drop this 15 percent ECG VAT is simply because of the upcoming election. Should you make the mistake of voting for them to remain in power, they will reintroduce this 15% VAT.” He also highlighted past instances of promises made during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as free water and electricity, being followed by the imposition of a COVID levy after the 2020 election.

  • “Everybody must be part of the fight against corruption” – EOCO boss

    “Everybody must be part of the fight against corruption” – EOCO boss

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah, has called on all Ghanaians to actively engage in the fight against corruption.

    Emphasizing that the battle against corruption cannot be won solely by politicians and public officeholders, she stressed the need for collective efforts.

    Her comments come in response to Ghana’s 43rd position in the latest corruption perception index.

    Maame Tiwa Addo Danquah urged people to volunteer information to strengthen the fight against corruption and emphasized the importance of citizen participation in addressing this societal challenge.

    “I keep saying that everybody must be part of the fight against corruption, not just those in authority, it must be everybody. Everyone must ensure that they are playing their role in the fight against corruption.

    “When you see something, not only in the physical security but even in the area of corruption, you must say something because if you don’t say it, it will get bad and that is what we should be worried about.”

  • Some parents are getting their children into SHS through bribe – Dafeamekpor alleges

    Some parents are getting their children into SHS through bribe – Dafeamekpor alleges

    The Member of Parliament (MP) for South Dayi, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, has alleged that parents are currently paying bribes to secure admissions into various senior high schools (SHSs) in Ghana.

    According to him, these bribes are being demanded at the placement centers for SHS admissions.

    Speaking on TV3’s Key Points regarding the Corruption Perceptions Index report by Transparency International, Dafeamekpor expressed concerns about corruption in the education system, citing instances where parents are allegedly paying to secure spots in popular schools.

    He claimed that corruption has infiltrated the computerized placement system, leading to demands for bribes at placement centers.

    Dafeamekpor argued that this issue needs to be addressed to ensure fairness in the admission process.

    “Today, parents are paying bribes to admit their children into SHSs because the computer system is being tampered with.

    “They will tell you Achimota School is full but if you pay money they will admit you, they will tell you PRESEC is full but if you pay money they will admit you, this is not from the headmasters but persons at the placements centers,” he said on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday Febraury 3 regarding the Corruption Perceptions Index report by Transparency International, released on Tuesday, January 30, ranking Ghana in the 70th position out of 180 countries monitored.

    Additionally, Dafeamekpor criticized the current administration’s efforts in fighting corruption, stating that former President John Dramani Mahama demonstrated stronger political will in tackling corruption during his tenure.

    In contrast, private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu asserted that President Akufo-Addo lost the fight against corruption when he appointed relatives as ministers of state. Kpebu emphasized that Akufo-Addo’s family and friends’ governance is a sign of corruption.

    On the same program, Member of Parliament for Asante Akim North, Kwame Andy Appiah-Kubi, defended President Akufo-Addo, arguing that blaming the president for acts of corruption by other officers is unfair. Appiah-Kubi emphasized the independence of state investigative bodies empowered to fight corruption.

    The Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) report by Transparency International ranked Ghana 70th out of 180 countries, with a score of 43 out of 100.

    The report highlighted concerns about stagnation in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts for the fourth consecutive year.

  • Akufo-Addo and Bawumia have made corruption normal – Sammy Gyamfi

    Akufo-Addo and Bawumia have made corruption normal – Sammy Gyamfi

    The Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress(NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has levied accusations against the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia government, alleging the institutionalization of corruption.

    Mr Gyamfi based his claims on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), emphasizing a significant deterioration in Ghana’s performance over the past seven years.

    He pointed out that Ghana achieved its highest CPI score of 48 in 2014 under John Dramani Mahama’s leadership. Conversely, the lowest performance in the last decade was recorded in 2017 under Akufo-Addo, with a score of 40.

    According to Mr Gyamfi, this downward trend signals a setback in the anti-corruption efforts, attributing the decline to the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government’s alleged endorsement and promotion of corrupt practices.

    The stark contrast in CPI scores, as observed in the last seven years, leads Gyamfi to assert that the fight against corruption has been forfeited under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government.

    He claimed that corruption has been institutionalized and allowed to thrive unchecked.

    “Never in the history of Ghana has any government enabled, facilitated, promoted and defended corruption like this government has done.

    Below is Sammy Gyamfi’s full post

    SAMMY GYAMFI ESQ. WRITES ON THE LATEST CORRUPTION PERCEPTION INDEX:

    Did you know, that Ghana’s best Corruption Perception Index performance was achieved in the year 2014, under the leadership of H.E John Dramani Mahama, when the country attained its highest CPI score: a score of 48?

    Did you know that Ghana’s worst Corruption Perception Index performance in the last decade, was recorded in the year 2017, under the supervision of corrupt Akufo-Addo and Bawumia, when the country attained its lowest CPI score; a score of 40?

    Did you know that John Mahama’s worst Corruption Perception Index performance was a score of 43, recorded in the year 2016? And that, this score remains Akufo-Addo and Bawumia’s best score under the CPI of Transparency International.

    It is glaringly clear, from Ghana’s performance under the CPI in the last seven (7) years, that the fight against corruption has been lost by the corrupt and wasteful Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government, who have institutionalized corruption and made it a thriving free for all venture. Never in the history of Ghana has any government enabled, facilitated, promoted and defended corruption like this government has done.

    From the BOSTGATE scandal to the PDS scandal, to the PPA Contracts for Sale scandal, to the “Galamsey” fraud scandal, to the Ameri Novation scandal, to the missing excavators scandal, to the missing fertilizers scandal, to the missing oil scandal, to the missing tricycles scandal, to the Sputnik V Vaccine scandal, to the COVID-19 funds “chop chop” scandal, to the Number 12 scandal, to the Appearance Fee scandal, to the Gold Mafia scandal, to the stolen rice scandal, to the latest stinky SML scandal; Jack Toronto and his younger brother and Mentee, have facilitated, perpetrated and promoted corruption, leading to unprecedented financial losses to the state.

    Instead of protecting the public purse as they promised in opposition, they have brazenly desecrated the public purse, wasted meagre state resources on useless ventures and shielded co-perpetrators of corruption from accountability.

    Instead of fighting corruption, they have turned around to fight corruption fighters with the might of the state, leading to the murder of an anti-corruption investigative journalist, Ahmed Suale, the unlawful ousting of the former Auditor General, Mr. Yao Domelevo, the resignation of the former Special Prosecutor, Martin A.B.K Amidu and the oppression of several journalists and critical voices.

    Remember, that a vote for Bawumia is a third-term vote for corrupt Akufo-Addo and his greedy cabal of family and friends.

    Don’t let your vote, aid them to escape from accountability. Rather let your vote, aid the state to hold them accountable.

    A vote for H.E John Dramani Mahama (The Nation Builder) is the only way, we can hold these crooks accountable for the several crimes they have committed against our beloved nation.

    #CorruptAkufo-Addo
    #CorruptBawumia
    #CorruptNPPGovernment

    SIGNED.
    SAMMY GYAMFI ESQ.
    National Communications Officer, NDC

  • Sammy Gyamfi accuses Akufo-Addo govt of institutionalizing corruption

    Sammy Gyamfi accuses Akufo-Addo govt of institutionalizing corruption

    National Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi Esq., has taken a swipe at the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia-led government, accusing it of institutionalizing and perpetrating corruption. 

    The post follows the release of the latest Corruption Perception Index (CPI), where Gyamfi asserts that Ghana’s fight against corruption has been lost under the current administration.

    Gyamfi highlighted that Ghana’s best CPI performance was in 2014, during John Dramani Mahama’s leadership, with a score of 48. In contrast, the worst performance in the last decade occurred in 2017 under the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, with a score of 40. He emphasized that Mahama’s worst score was 43 in 2016, which remains the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government’s best score.

    The NDC Communications Officer claimed that corruption had become a thriving venture under the current government, listing various scandals such as BOSTGATE, PDS, PPA Contracts for Sale, “Galamsey” fraud, Ameri Novation, missing excavators, missing fertilizers, missing oil, missing tricycles, Sputnik V Vaccine, COVID-19 funds, Number 12, Appearance Fee, Gold Mafia, stolen rice, and the latest SML scandal.

    Gyamfi accused the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration of facilitating, perpetrating, and promoting corruption, leading to unprecedented financial losses for the state. He criticized the government for not protecting the public purse, as promised in opposition, and for allegedly shielding co-perpetrators of corruption from accountability.

    The NDC official also alleged that instead of fighting corruption, the government had targeted corruption fighters, citing the murder of journalist Ahmed Suale, the ousting of Auditor General Yao Domelevo, the resignation of Special Prosecutor Martin A.B.K Amidu, and the oppression of journalists.

    In conclusion, Gyamfi urged voters not to support a “third-term” for what he labeled the “Corrupt Akufo-Addo and his greedy cabal of family and friends.” He called for accountability through voting for John Dramani Mahama in the upcoming elections.

  • Opposition leader in India detained in corruption case

    Opposition leader in India detained in corruption case

    India’s agency for catching people who do bad things with money has taken a top leader from the other political party into custody. This happened just a few hours after he quit his job as the main leader of Jharkhand state.

    Hemant Soren from the JMM party is being accused of doing something wrong for money. He says the accusations are not true.

    He was taken into custody by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday evening after being questioned for seven hours.

    His political party has chosen Champai Soren, who is currently the transport minister, to be the next leader of the eastern state.

    Mr Soren is fighting against his arrest in India’s highest court, saying it is based on politics. The issue will be discussed on Friday.

    He is the newest of many opposition leaders being investigated by India’s main agencies.

    An Indian person who fights against corruption is trying to prove his innocence.
    The government in India removed a very outspoken member of parliament amid allegations of taking bribes.

    The problem with Mr. Soren is about a piece of land he is said to own in Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand.

    The ED says he bought the property using money from illegal activities, like selling land that belonged to the Indian army.

    Mr Soren says he didn’t do it and says the property was wrongly said to belong to him.

    The ED officials asked Mr Soren to come for questioning several times but he didn’t go.

    On Monday, officials went to Mr. Soren’s house in Delhi but he was not there. The agency took 3. 6 million rupees ($43,381; £34,202) and a car from the house.

    The next day, Mr. Soren appeared in Ranchi and said he would give his statement to the agency on Wednesday.

    A rule was made that people are not allowed to be out around the chief minister’s house and the ED office in Ranchi after a certain time.

    A few hours later, Mr. Soren quit his job. Then his loyal supporter Champai Soren was chosen as the next leader. Hemant Soren got arrested last night.

    The JMM said the investigation against Mr Soren was unfair and driven by politics, like a “witch-hunt”.

    The party said that the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP is using central agencies to go after opposition leaders before the general elections. The BJP says it did not interfere in politics.

    India’s main opposition party, Congress, also criticized Mr. Soren’s arrest, saying it is a “threat to federalism”. JMM is a group of opposition parties in India that wants to challenge the ruling BJP-led alliance in the elections.

    Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said that the BJP is very corrupt and is trying to ruin democracy.

    Many other top government officials and political leaders are being accused of stealing money or being dishonest.

    In November, the ED asked Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to appear in connection with a case about a liquor policy that was no longer in effect in the state. His friends from the party, Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, have already been taken into custody in the matter.

    The police are looking into claims that the leaders of three southern states – Telangana, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh – are involved in illegal money activities. All the leaders said they did not do the things they were accused of.

  • Everybody is just tired of the corruption happening in your govt – Mahama tells Akufo-Addo

    Everybody is just tired of the corruption happening in your govt – Mahama tells Akufo-Addo

    Former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, has expressed the view that Ghanaians have become desensitized to corruption.

    He noted that in the past, when people heard of scandals, they were shocked, but currently, citizens seem to expect public officers to engage in corruption in one way or another.

    “Today when there is a scandal people are like we are tired because they are all tired, everybody is tired. And so even in the twilight to exit office you still coming up with schemes to steal money.

    “This is at a time when we have the office of the special prosecutor suddenly say the special prosecutor should return all Cecilia Dapaah’s money to her. The explanation they give is that the Special Prosecutor cannot handle money laundering cases. So why did they establish the office of the special prosecutor?” he quizzed.

    He made the comment in response to the latest Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International, ranking Ghana 70th out of 180 countries in terms of corruption.

    Ghana scored 43 out of 100, the same since 2020. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana scored better than 39 countries, including Burkina Faso (41), South Africa (41), Côte d’Ivoire (40), Tanzania (40), and Lesotho (39).

    However, it ranked lower than seven countries in the region, including Mauritius (51), Namibia (49), and Sao Tome and Principe (45). The average score for African countries remains low, at 33 out of 100, with 90% of Sub-Saharan African nations scoring below 50.

  • Don’t just make wild allegations, provide evidence – EOCO on fight against corruption

    Don’t just make wild allegations, provide evidence – EOCO on fight against corruption

    Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO), Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, has issued a challenge to individuals who allege corruption, urging them to provide evidence to support their claims.

    According to her, making unverified and baseless allegations of corruption is insufficient, and those making such accusations should be able to substantiate them with concrete evidence.

    Speaking to the media at a Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) event Accra on January 29, she said, “One thing that we should always remember is that when you are prosecuting corruption, it is not about what you think, it is about the evidence that you have. If you don’t have evidence, you don’t have a case. That is what the public must understand. People make wild allegations but when it comes to evidence, they chicken out.”

    Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah emphasizes that corruption permeates through the fabric of society, underscoring the need for a collective effort in the fight against it.

    “I am concerned, everybody should be concerned. What do we have to do? We must all put our hands together and we must fight whatever is fighting us. That is what I can say. The point is that, like the OSP said, if we really need to fight it, then everybody must fight. I have somebody who asked me for support to pay school fees or something.

    Then the moment I said I could help, she called me back to say that I should not put it on her MoMo because she is owing MTN, can you imagine. And I did. So, these are small-small things that we think they don’t matter, but they do. It starts from small-small things and become big,” she stated.

    Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah was responding to questions related to a money laundering case referred to her office by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Additionally, she addressed queries regarding an exposé by The Fourth Estate on the contract awarded to Strategic Mobilisation by the Ghana Revenue Authority for revenue assurances in the downstream petroleum sector.

    In a December 2023 investigative report, The Fourth Estate implicated Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML), the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the Ministry of Finance in a contentious contract.

    The report alleged that GRA had granted SML a purported 10-year contract with an annual payment of $100 million, raising concerns about possible irregularities. SML refuted this claim, asserting that it had a five-year contract instead.

    The GRA, in a statement on December 20, 2023, maintained that proper procurement procedures were followed. On January 3, 2024, SML welcomed President Akufo-Addo’s directive to suspend its ongoing revenue assurance operations and undergo an audit of its contract with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance.

    President Akufo-Addo appointed KPMG, an audit, tax, and advisory services firm, to conduct an immediate audit. SML expressed confidence that the audit would provide a clear and accurate depiction of its operations.

  • Former Pakistani PM Bushra Bibi and his wife imprisoned due to corruption

    Former Pakistani PM Bushra Bibi and his wife imprisoned due to corruption

    Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi have been sentenced to 14 years in prison, which is the second sentence given to the former prime minister of Pakistan in two days.

    The two sentences were said a week before the South Asian country’s election, where he cannot run for office.

    Khan was removed as Prime Minister in 2022 and is now in jail for three years for being corrupt.

    He believes that the many lawsuits against him are because of politics.

    On Wednesday, he was in court for getting presents from the state while he was in charge, and his wife got them too. On Tuesday, he was in court for sharing secret government papers and got 10 years in prison. It is believed that the two sentences will happen at the same time, but it hasn’t been confirmed yet.

    The court told the couple to pay a 1. 5 billion rupee fine (which is about 4. 2 million pounds or 5. 3 million dollars)

    Khan’s PTI party said that their leader is banned from doing political work for 10 years. He also can’t hold a public office.

    Khan’s lawyers said they will ask Pakistan’s High Court to review both cases.

    The ex-prime minister and cricket player has been in jail since August when he was arrested. He has been in Adiala jail in Rawalpindi for most of the time.

    His wife Bushra Bibi, who had been released from custody, turned herself in at the jail on Wednesday. She usually stayed out of the public eye while they were in office. They got married in 2018, a few months before Khan became prime minister.

    Both of them said they didn’t do what Pakistan’s anti-corruption group said they did. They denied selling or keeping state gifts for their own gain. The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia gave a jewellery set as a gift.

    The PTI says the cases against Khan are fake. They think the trials happened in unfair courts where things happened too quickly. The case on Wednesday was called a “sad day in our judicial system history” and the judiciary is being “dismantled”.

    “You cannot ask any more questions, no final arguments can be made, and the decision seems to have already been made,” it claimed.

    Khan’s lawyers also said he didn’t have a chance to defend himself in a trial that went faster than they thought it would. The judge said the decisions when Khan, Bibi, and their lawyers were not in the room, according to reporters.

    At the same time, Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, said to the media outside Adiala jail that they were not sure what time the case was supposed to begin.

    Khan has not said anything about the decision on Wednesday. The decision came after a judge found him guilty of sharing a secret document and hurting relationships between countries. Khan told his supporters to vote on February 8 and seek revenge for any wrongs in a peaceful way. He said this in a message on his social media account.

    Even before the sentences were given, people were already doubting if the election next Thursday can be trusted because Khan and his party have been ignored a lot.

    The government says they didn’t crackdown on PTI, but many of its leaders are in jail or have left the party. The people running for election are not part of any political party and a lot of them are actively campaigning.

    Many of the party’s followers were arrested after protests, some of which turned violent, when Khan was taken into police custody last May.

    The party no longer has the cricket bat symbol, which is important for voters who can’t read well to know where to mark their vote.

    The person expected to win is Nawaz Sharif, who used to be the prime minister three times before. He came back from living outside his country in the fall. He caused a lot of trouble for the military during his long career and was put in jail for doing bad things before the 2018 election that Imran Khan won.

    Many people think that the Pakistan military likes someone else more now, instead of Khan, who they used to like.

  • You must trust us to fight corruption – Chief of Staff tells Ghanaians

    You must trust us to fight corruption – Chief of Staff tells Ghanaians

    Chief of Staff, Akosua Frema Osei-Opare, has called on citizens and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to have confidence in state institutions tasked with investigating and prosecuting corruption-related offenses.

    She emphasized the need for unity in the fight against corruption and expressed concern that “unfounded allegations” could undermine efforts to combat corruption effectively.

    Speaking at a meeting organized by the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) in Accra to discuss the 2023 Corruption Perception Index (CPI) released by Transparency International, Madam Osei-Opare highlighted that since 2017, all corruption allegations against government officials had been promptly investigated by relevant State institutions, and the outcomes were made public.

    She urged CSOs and the public not to persistently view individuals who have been cleared of corruption allegations by State institutions as guilty, emphasizing that there is no basis for such perceptions after the due investigative processes have taken place.

    “Unfounded allegation of corruption and perception of wrongdoing hardly aid the fight against corruption. When corruption allegations have been investigated and findings made exonerated the subject of investigations, there is no basis for continuous suspicion of wrongdoing by civil society and other persons who have access to the media.

    “We must trust institutions of State established to fight against corruption,” she said.

    Madam Osei-Opare emphasized the need to strengthen the State’s capacity in dealing with corruption, acknowledging the ever-evolving nature of the problem.

    “The struggle against corruption is ever evolving. Wrongdoers employ complex and sophisticated means to avoid detection,” she said.

    She made this comment at a time when the Transparency International has released the latest Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking Ghana 70th out of 180 countries in terms of corruption.

    Ghana scored 43 out of 100, the same since 2020. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana scored better than 39 countries, including Burkina Faso (41), South Africa (41), Côte d’Ivoire (40), Tanzania (40), and Lesotho (39).

    However, it ranked lower than seven countries in the region, including Mauritius (51), Namibia (49), and Sao Tome and Principe (45). The average score for African countries remains low, at 33 out of 100, with 90% of Sub-Saharan African nations scoring below 50.

    Meanwhile, the Chief of Staff has disclosed that the Conduct of Public Officers Bill will soon be considered by the Cabinet after the completion of ongoing stakeholder engagements on the Bill.

    She highlighted that once passed into law, the Bill would play a significant role in controlling corruption within public institutions and agencies, aiming to safeguard the public purse.

  • We are using small flies as scape goats and leaving corrupt top officials – Domelevo

    We are using small flies as scape goats and leaving corrupt top officials – Domelevo

    Former Auditor General, Daniel Domelevo, has identified key challenges hindering Ghana’s pursuit of a corruption-free system.

    He emphasized that while the country has the necessary institutions and capable personnel, the critical missing element is effective leadership in the fight against corruption.

    mR Domelevo highlighted the pivotal role that leadership plays in shaping the trajectory of anti-corruption initiatives. He argued that strong leadership sends a powerful message throughout the system, influencing the overall approach to combating corruption.

    To illustrate his point, Domelevo pointed to Singapore’s successful anti-corruption campaign led by Lee Kuan Yew. He stressed the importance of addressing corruption at its roots, specifically targeting high-ranking officials responsible for the misappropriation, theft, and mismanagement of public funds.

    “We’re holding the bull by its tail. We are looking for small flies to use as examples in our fight against corruption, instead of holding the top officials accountable,” he said on JoyNews’ PM Express.

    Expressing apprehension about the weakening state of the Office of the Auditor-General, Mr. Domelevo attributed the decline in effectiveness to actions taken against him by the President.

    He suggested that the measures directed at him have created a climate of fear among personnel, inhibiting their ability to pursue public officials vigorously. The fear of potential repercussions akin to what he experienced seems to have cast a shadow over the office’s operations.

    Mr. Domelevo also commented on the suboptimal performance of the Office of the Special Prosecutor. He pointed to frequent political interference as a significant obstacle hampering its functionality.

    “The environment and the frequent political interference do not allow [the Office of the Special Prosecutor] to function the way that it should,” he said on Tuesday.

    Ghana’s standing in the latest Corruption Perceptions Index reflects a lack of progress, with the country maintaining its position as 70th out of 180 countries.

    The index, which measures perceived levels of corruption, awarded Ghana a score of 43 out of a possible 100. Notably, this score has remained constant since 2020.

  • Special Prosecutor advocates for Anti-Corruption Courts amid stagnant CPI

    Special Prosecutor advocates for Anti-Corruption Courts amid stagnant CPI

    Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has called for the establishment of anti-corruption courts in Ghana to prosecute individuals suspected of engaging in corruption and related offenses. 

    Agyebeng expressed his disappointment with Ghana’s corruption score of 43 in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) for 2023, emphasizing the need for more effective measures to combat corruption.

    Speaking at a roundtable discussion on the 2023 CPI, Agyebeng characterized the fight against corruption as an “unruly bread” and highlighted the challenges hindering significant progress in addressing corruption issues. Ghana has maintained a corruption score of 43 since 2020, ranking 70th out of 180 countries and territories included in the CPI.

    “The conversation is becoming sterile. The fight against corruption is proving to be an unruly bread indeed and the fight against corruption is not lending herself to agreeable investigation and cohabitation and we are not recording much success, our progress is hampered and we’re unable to move the needle appreciably to improve our scorecard,” he said.

    Ghana’s stagnant anti-corruption efforts over the past four years, as indicated by the CPI, align with a global trend of deteriorating justice systems, reducing accountability for public officials and allowing corruption to persist. Transparency International also noted a decline in Ghana’s Rule of Law Index, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reforms.

    Ghana scored 43 out of a clean score of 100 and ranked 70th out of 180 countries and territories included in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2023, released today, January 30, 2024 by Transparency International (TI).

    This marks the fourth consecutive year of stagnation in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts, as indicated by the CPI.

    In Sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana came 8th out of 49 countries.

    According to Transparency International, Ghana’s stagnated score highlights a global trend of deteriorating justice systems which is reducing the accountability of public officials and therefore allowing corruption to thrive.

    “The connection is reinforced by Ghana’s performance in the Rule of Law Index produced by the World Justice Project which demonstrates a concerning decline. In the 2015 Rule of Law Index, Ghana scored 0.60 and ranked 34, but by 2023, Ghana’s score had decreased to 0.55, with a corresponding drop in ranking to 61,” it stated.

    Reacting to the report, the Special Prosecutor made some demands, including the entrenchment of anti-corruption law enforcement institutions and the establishment of the special anti-corruption courts to swiftly and efficiently deal with corruption cases.

    “May we assure the entrenchment of anti-corruption law enforcement institutions in addition to the Commission of Human Rights and Administrative Justice; may we write anti-corruption law enforcement institutions into the constitution especially the flagship office of the special prosecutor; may we enlarge the powers and mandate of anti-corruption law enforcement institutions; may we insulate anti-corruption law enforcement institutions from political marginalization.

    “May we include the office of the special prosecutor in the membership of the judicial council; may we assure anti-corruption law enforcement institutions the flow of adequate resources; may we assure in actual practice the independence of the judiciary; may we assure that judges will adjudicate with boldness without fear of reprisals.

    “May we assure that judges will adjudicate without fear of compromising their promotion and advancement; may we set up a specialized anti-corruption court manned by specially trained judges in the field to swiftly and efficiently deal with corruption cases; and may we remunerate judges and officers of anti-corruption law enforcement institutions adequately, they are human after all, hunger and squalor begets a natural urge to cut a corner or two or three till it becomes habitual and a culture,” he said.

  • We all have a role to play in fighting corruption – EOCO

    The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO), has emphasized the collective responsibility of individuals and institutions in the ongoing battle against corruption in Ghana.

    During an exclusive interview with 3News’ Beatrice Adu on Monday, January 29, 2024 she highlighted the prevalence of corruption in society, urging collective efforts in combating the issue.

    She also stressed the necessity of concrete evidence in prosecuting corruption, emphasizing that everyone, including individuals and institutions, has a role to play in the fight against corruption.

    Madam Addo-Danquah called for a collective change of attitude and mindset to effectively combat corruption.

    “One thing that we should always remember is that when you are prosecuting corruption, it is not about what you think, it is about the evidence that you have. If you don’t have evidence, you don’t have a case. That is what the public must understand. People make wild allegations but when it comes to evidence, they chicken out,“ she said in an exclusive interview with 3News’ Beatrice Adu on January 29 at a CDD event Accra.

    “I am concerned, everybody should be concerned. What do we have to do? We must all put our hands together and we must fight whatever is fighting us. That is what I can say. The point is that, like the OSP said, if we really need to fight it, then everybody must fight. I have somebody who asked me for support to pay school fees or something.

    Then the moment I said I could help, she called me back to say that I should not put it on her MoMo because she is owing MTN, can you imagine. And I did. So, these are small-small things that we think they don’t matter, but they do. It starts from small-small things and become big,” she stated.

    “So, everybody must have a change of attitude, mindset, that this is where we are and this is where we want to go. And we must all play a role in the fight against corruption. One person cannot do it. And it’s not about leadership. It’s about everybody playing a role. Whatever is expected you, you do it, whatever is expected of me, I do it. Whatever is expected of institutions, they do it,” Madam Tiwaa stressed.

    She further acknowledged the receipt of the docket on the alleged money laundering case involving former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Dapaah.

    “I have that, and we are now reviewing, at the appropriate time, we will speak about it. I am not well briefed about the docket, so I don’t want to make any comment on it until we review it. The most important thing is that he has handed over, I don’t have any more thing to add,” she explained.

  • We know the cure to corruption but do not want to take it – Special Prosecutor

    We know the cure to corruption but do not want to take it – Special Prosecutor

    Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng, has expressed disappointment in Ghana’s stagnant position on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI).

    Ghana scored 43 out of 100, securing the 70th position out of 180 countries and territories in the CPI 2023 released by Transparency International.

    Mr Agyebeng highlighted the country’s lack of progress in the fight against corruption. This marks the fourth consecutive year of stagnation in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts.

    Mr Agyebeng emphasized the need for collective efforts to address corruption and improve Ghana’s standing in the global fight against corruption.

     “We are standing at a single spot spinning around slowly on one foot in a circle, much like a gyroscope, the conversation is becoming sterile.

    “The fight against corruption is proving to be an unruly bride indeed…we are not recording much success and progress is hampered, and we are unable to move the needle appreciably to improve our scorecard,” the Special Prosecutor said.

    He added, “We certainly know the cure to the malaise but we are unwilling to take the medication fully, it is as if we don’t want to actually cure it though we reckon it is slowly killing us. it is as if we do not know what we want.”

    Chief of Staff Akosua Frema Osei-Opare called on civil society organizations (CSOs) to trust anti-graft bodies and refrain from harboring suspicions once individuals have been exonerated after investigations for alleged misconduct.

    She made these remarks during a roundtable discussion on the Corruption Perception Index 2023, where Ghana scored 43 out of 100. The discussion aimed to address challenges and perceptions surrounding corruption in the country.

    Madam Osei-Opare emphasized the importance of trust in the anti-corruption efforts and collaboration between government institutions and CSOs to address corruption effectively.

  • Ghana has made no progress in fighting corruption since 2020 – Report

    Ghana has made no progress in fighting corruption since 2020 – Report

    Transparency International has released the latest Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking Ghana 70th out of 180 countries in terms of corruption.

    Ghana scored 43 out of 100, the same since 2020. In Sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana scored better than 39 countries, including Burkina Faso (41), South Africa (41), Côte d’Ivoire (40), Tanzania (40), and Lesotho (39).

    However, it ranked lower than seven countries in the region, including Mauritius (51), Namibia (49), and Sao Tome and Principe (45). The average score for African countries remains low, at 33 out of 100, with 90% of Sub-Saharan African nations scoring below 50.

    The Board Chairman of TI, François Valérian, stated that, “Corruption will continue to thrive until justice systems can punish wrongdoing and keep governments in check. When justice is bought or politically interfered with, it is the people who suffer. Leaders should fully invest in and guarantee the independence of institutions that uphold the law and tackle corruption. It is time to end impunity for corruption.”

    The Rule of Law Index indicates a global decline in the functioning of justice systems, and countries scoring low on the index also rank poorly on the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI).

    This correlation highlights the close relationship between access to justice and levels of corruption, suggesting that improvements in the former could lead to improvements in the latter.

    The Akufo-Addo-led government has been accused of setting a conducive space for all manner of corrupt activities to take place.

    Flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has taken a swipe at the alleged corrupt dealings of the current government, stating that corruption is currently on the loose and running all over the country without control.

    Mahama, during his tour of the Volta region, said the New Patriotic Party (NPP) lacks the ability to eradicate corruption because its own people are engaged in the canker.

    “Now, corruption has broken loose and if it was in the IGP’s custody, it has broken the jail and is running all over the country. It’s obvious that the NPP has no desire or the ability to check corruption because their own people are involved in the corruption, and they cannot deal with it.”

    Addressing weaknesses in the justice system should be a key focus of anti-corruption efforts and GII has recommended the following:

    • The Executive should urgently take steps to lay the Conduct of Public Officers’ Bill in Parliament ensuring that provisions on assets declaration require verification and come with severe sanctions for non-compliance while GII also calls on the Legislature to attach an equal level of urgency to its timely passage.
    • The Executive and the Legislature must take steps to bridge the legal gaps necessary for the prosecution of selected corruption cases outside our current legal framework. These anti- corruption frameworks include unexplained wealth, influence peddling, and all aspects of the UNCAC, among others.
    • Government must give the justice system the resources and transparency needed to effectively punish all corruption offenses and provide checks and balances on power. Where necessary, they must also introduce better procedures and laws to help justice institutions shield themselves from and target corrupt acts.
    • Laws that criminalise defamation or give judges discretion to award crippling compensation in libel cases inhibit the media from investigating and reporting suspected criminality and should be reformed. Journalists must be able to comment fairly on legal proceedings and report suspected or actual corruption or bias.
    • The Judicial Service should institute limited immunity for judges in matters related to judicial duties while excluding immunity in corruption or criminal cases. Expand, strengthen and increase knowledge of the public on the Public Relations and Complaint Unit (PRCU) of the Judicial Services. This will ensure a confidential and rigorous whistleblower policy for reporting suspected breaches, ensuring the involvement of lawyers, court users, prosecutors, police, media, and civil society.

  • The day Ghanaians lose faith in OSP is the day the soul of the country dies – Kissi Agyebeng

    The day Ghanaians lose faith in OSP is the day the soul of the country dies – Kissi Agyebeng

    Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyebeng has asked Ghanaians not to lose faith in his office since that would spell doom for Ghana. 

    Speaking at a press brief on Thursday January 25, 2024, Mr Agyebeng underscored the critical importance of public faith in the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and entreated citizens to maintain unwavering faith and confidence in his outfit. 

    “The day Ghanaians lose faith in the OSP is the day the soul of the country dies,” he said.

    The remark was made in response to a question posed by JoyFm journalist Elton Brobbey, who sought clarity on the level of trust citizens should have in the OSP’s efforts to combat corruption in Ghana.

    Agyebeng, who assumed the role of Special Prosecutor with the mandate to investigate and prosecute corruption-related offenses, expressed the belief that the OSP’s effectiveness is intrinsically tied to the trust and confidence placed in its operations by the Ghanaian populace. 

    Mr Agyebeng at the press brief was giving an update on former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Dapaah’s suspected money laundering case.

    During the presser, he revealed that he has officially referred the case to the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for further investigations into suspected money laundering. 

    This decision comes in the wake of revelations that a significant portion of the substantial amounts of cash found at Dapaah’s residence, along with funds in her bank accounts, may have been repatriated from abroad.

    Mr. Kissi Agyebeng, disclosed that the investigation took a cross-border turn when individuals of interest claimed that part of the seized cash was transported to the United States. 

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) subsequently joined forces with the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to delve into the matter, after which he said his outfit has referred the case to EOCO.

  • The huge number of streams some musicians get are sometimes not genuine – Reggie Rockstone

    The huge number of streams some musicians get are sometimes not genuine – Reggie Rockstone

    Reggie Rockstone has drawn attention to what he deems as rampant corruption in the Ghanaian music scene, asserting that certain artists are artificially boosting their popularity by purchasing online streams.

    In a conversation on Property FM in Cape Coast, Reggie Rockstone voiced apprehension regarding the authenticity of the remarkable streaming figures boasted by numerous Ghanaian musicians.

    He specifically highlighted the use of streaming farms, where artists employ various methods to artificially inflate their streaming numbers.

    “The huge number of streams some musicians get are sometimes not genuine because they have streaming farms. The corruption that has infiltrated into music nowadays is a whole topic for another day that we need to discuss,” he asserted.

    Not only did Reggie Rockstone criticize musicians, but he also implied that the makers of well-known digital streaming services, like Spotify, are making sizable profits off of musicians.

    He made it clear that the majority of the money raised goes to help people in other countries.

    “The white people are really enjoying our money out of the digital streaming platforms they’ve created like Spotify and the rest. They’re really spending our money, and they always find a new way to rip, so we have a lot of things that we have to look at,” Rockstone lamented.

  • “We have taught people”—Archbishop Agyin-Asare on why he thinks Ghanaians are corrupt


    The founder of Perez Chapel International, Archbishop Charles Agyin-Asare, has attributed the prevalence of corruption in the nation to the path being charted by politicians. Observing the rapid acquisition of wealth by politicians within a short period, the Archbishop pointed out that individuals in other professions may adopt any means, including illegitimate ones, to survive in such an environment.

    He emphasised the role of leadership in this issue, stating that “all things rise and fall with leadership.” Archbishop Charles Agyin-Asare highlighted the critical impact of leadership choices on the overall state of corruption in the country.

    When asked “why are Ghanaians corrupt?” he said, “We have taught people that… because if somebody goes into political office, he doesn’t have a house, and in four years, he has three houses. The ordinary guy who sits in the office, the teacher, who has also worked for ten years, also has to find a way to survive. The policeman also feels that he has to do something to survive,” he told Captain Smart on Maakye Wednesday, January 17, 2024, on Onua TV/FM.

    Using a case study from Gambia, the preacher admonished Ghanaian leaders to cultivate the habit of selflessness and prioritise the interests of the state in order to ameliorate the crisis.

    “There was this parliamentarian in Gambia, a lady. They increased the salaries of parliamentarians, the president and the Speaker. She came and said that it was an insult because how could they increase their salary by sixty-something percent when the ordinary man has not had any increment? So she wouldn’t take it and she rejected it. So, when we have leaders like that, if we have people who are selfless and they are looking at the nation in terms of lifting up the ordinary person, things will change,” he stressed.

    “Over the years, when the government even built affordable housing and things, before you realised it, the government themselves, people have six of them and eight of them. So everybody thinks that we have to get to politics and that is where we are now,” he added.

    Aside from corruption, he also shared his view on what is destroying Ghana, which he said could become devastating if care is not taken.

    “We have divided the nation on political lines. We are one people so we should stop creating divisions among ourselves. I think the political class enjoys doing that because they are not enemies.”

    According to the Archbishop, what changed his perception of politicians and their tactics of acting as enemies before the public is an experience he had with them about two decades ago on a flight where they expressed amity instead of the enmity they have always portrayed.

    “I travelled with some politicians 15–20 years ago. We went to East Africa. I went to preach there and we went together. And on the flight, they were chatting—opposition [and government in power]. I used to think they were enemies because that’s what they portrayed to us.

    “We stayed in the same hotel; we went to eat lunch together; they were drinking tea together so I came back and I even accosted them and said, Why do you make it look like we are enemies? Why don’t you show this side you’re showing? [and] they just laughed. But I think that the more they do that, the more they are able to keep us down and make sure that we don’t say what they are doing,” he pointed out.

  • Corruption hasn’t made Ghana poorer – Freddie Blay tells Afari-Gyan


    Former Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party, Freddie Blay, has voiced disagreement with the assessment by former Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, that Ghana has become poorer due to corruption.

    Blay acknowledged the imperative to curb corruption but rejected the notion that Ghana is now poorer due to this issue.

    He emphasized, “Corruption is a canker that we must all fight, but I disagree with him that we have become poorer.

    This country has not gone poorer. We are not rich; we are inching towards a middle-income country among the comity of nations.”

    During an interview on the January 14 edition of Hot Issues with Keminni Amanor, Blay contested Afari-Gyan’s assertion made during the Constitution Day Public Lecture.

    Mr Afari-Gyan had stated, “Over the years, we have become poorer as a nation and as a people, mainly due to pervasive corruption, particularly in the public sector.”

    Mr Blay stressed that while Ghana may not be as affluent as some countries, it is not definitively poorer.

    He expressed the belief that governance should focus on reducing poverty and enhancing the quality of life for the people, stating, “We can do better, I believe.”

  • Corruption activities out of control in Akufo-Addo’s govt – Mahama

    Corruption activities out of control in Akufo-Addo’s govt – Mahama

    The Flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has once again voiced strong criticism against the current administration, accusing it of unchecked and widespread corruption.

    Mr. Mahama likened corruption to an unbridled entity running amok throughout the country.

    During his tour of the Volta region on Thursday, January 11, Mr. Mahama asserted that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) is incapable of eliminating corruption, highlighting the involvement of its members in such malfeasance.

    Addressing the crowd in Tegbi, the former president pledged that his administration, if elected, would make concerted efforts to eradicate corruption.

    Furthermore, he issued a caution to party members holding positions of authority, emphasizing that he would not shield them if found guilty of corruption.

    “Now, corruption has broken loose and if it was in the IGP’s custody, it has broken the jail and is running all over the country. It’s obvious that the NPP has no desire or the ability to check corruption because their people are involved in the corruption, and they cannot deal with it.”

    “So I have said if they [the NPP] can’t deal with it when we come, we will deal with it for them. When the NDC comes, we will hold those who have misconducted themselves accountable. But I must also caution our people that those of us who go into positions of authority, if you also abuse your trust, I am not going to come and defend you.”

    “We are a listening party, and we believe that power is given to a political party or to leaders to come and serve us. We are not seeking power just to be arrogant and opulent in our attitude. We are seeking power because we want to solve the rightful needs of our people,” he added.

  • Corruption fight has been trivialised in Ghana – Former Peoce Council Secretary  asserts

    Corruption fight has been trivialised in Ghana – Former Peoce Council Secretary  asserts

    Former General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana has asserted that a significant number of Ghanaians lack genuine dedication to combating corruption.

    Rev. Dr Kwabena Opuni Frimpong contends that corruption extends beyond government officials, permeating various sectors of society.

    He highlighted that a substantial sum of money remains unaccounted for, including funds in the form of loans that will burden future generations with repayment obligations.

    “We shouldn’t be a nation that creates problems today that our children should come and solve tomorrow,” he said on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.

    In an interview, Rev. Dr. Opuni Frimpong pointed out that government officials and other authorities protect each other, rather than holding each other accountable which is a challenge in the fight against corruption.

    According to him, the fight against corruption must begin at the grassroots level which will eradicate corruption in Ghana.

    “We need leaders who will say I appointed you, but you have disgraced us, you have disgraced the nation. You don’t qualify to be here. The next morning pack and leave. I don’t think I have that impression as a Ghanaian. Maybe, I’m not seeing right because of the lens I am wearing but Ghana as a nation, as I see it, we are not serious with the corruption fight.”

  • I can’t fight corruption alone, I need your support – Akufo-Addo to Ghanaians

    I can’t fight corruption alone, I need your support – Akufo-Addo to Ghanaians


    President Akufo-Addo has emphasized that the battle against corruption is a joint effort involving all stakeholders.

    Speaking on Thursday, December 21, 2023, during the official launch of the evaluation of Ghana’s inaugural ten-year National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP) for the period 2015 to 2024, he highlighted the importance of collective action.

    NACAP, according to the President, has been a crucial strategy guiding the coordination of efforts and resources from various stakeholders, including the government, public sector institutions, civil society, private sector, individuals, and the media, to prevent and combat corruption.

    Akufo-Addo stated, “Indeed, NACAP was developed to align with standard global indicators, local knowledge of corruption and other anti-corruption measures on the premise that conventional anti-corruption approaches have, consistently, not yielded the anticipated results. Fighting corruption is a shared responsibility.

    “This is why we must all see the evaluation of the maiden NACAP and the development of NACAP 2 as the responsibility of all stakeholders in this nation, citizens and non-citizens alike. I urge all stakeholders to give the exercise the priority it deserves, provide open and honest responses and inputs, and offer their support and co-operation to ensure a successful evaluation. Let us embrace it as a beneficial learning tool, rather than a threatening scrutiny”.

    He urged stakeholders to prioritize the exercise, provide open and honest responses, and offer their support to ensure a successful evaluation, framing it as a beneficial learning tool rather than a threatening scrutiny.

    The President asserted that his administration had adequately resourced institutions involved in the fight against corruption.

    Budgetary allocations to these institutions, he mentioned, have increased by the end of 2022 compared to the figures inherited in 2017 when he assumed office.

    Akufo-Addo highlighted achievements such as the digitization of key sectors to enhance efficiency, the restructuring of the public-sector internal audit system, the establishment of audit committees, and collaboration among relevant institutions.

    He also emphasized significant budgetary increases for institutions engaged in public sector accountability, demonstrating his commitment to equipping these institutions effectively.

  • GACC calls for a specialised court to tackle corruption

    GACC calls for a specialised court to tackle corruption

    The Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) has advocated for the establishment of a specialized anti-corruption court as part of measures to enhance the fight against corruption.

    This recommendation was highlighted in the GACC’s Corruption Report 2023, titled “Reflections on the State of Corruption in Ghana,” which was launched to mark the 2023 International Day Against Corruption.

    The GACC, a coalition of 13 organizations comprising civil society, state actors, and a private sector body, emphasized the need for collaboration between state anti-graft agencies and the judicial arm of government.

    “There is a need to be more radical in our efforts to achieve results in the short term if Ghana is to deliver a big blow against corruption.”

    GACC has recommended the passing of a Corrupt Practices Act and a Conduct of Public Officers Act as part of efforts to strengthen the legal framework and mechanisms for combating and penalizing corruption and corruption-related offenses.

    The GACC echoed the sentiment expressed by the Office of Special Prosecutor (OSP) that legislative measures are crucial for establishing a robust legal framework in the fight against corruption.

    Additionally, the GACC called for a holistic approach to the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP II) to ensure widespread support and the availability of necessary resources, both financial and non-financial, for effective implementation.

    The coalition emphasized the importance of regulatory reforms to ensure that public officers found guilty of audit offenses are prosecuted, especially in response to the widespread disregard for the Auditor-General’s recommendations for administrative and audit reforms.

    “State institutions must compulsorily create, strengthen, and work with internal audit units to perform oversight functions internally,” it added.

    The Coalition has put forth a series of recommendations, including institutionalizing a value system that prompts individuals whose conduct in public office is disreputable to resign or recuse themselves.

    The coalition also urged the government to take measures to prevent abuse of incumbency and electoral corruption during the 2024 general elections, emphasizing the need for political parties to provide logistical support to delegates during internal elections.

    Beauty Emefa Narteh, the Executive Secretary of GACC, expressed concern about Ghana consistently ranking below 50 points on the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), despite continuous advocacy efforts by anti-corruption bodies. She highlighted the negative impacts of corruption on various aspects of society, emphasizing its connection to conflict, instability, and the undermining of democratic institutions.

    Narteh underscored the importance of holistic commitment from all stakeholders in the fight against corruption, noting that the establishment of an Anti-Corruption Court is crucial given the challenges in prosecuting offenders and ensuring accountability. The recommendations and concerns were part of GACC’s activities to mark the 2023 International Day Against Corruption, which focused on the link between anti-corruption efforts, peace, security, and development.

  • Corruption has broken loose, Ghanaians are now tired of you – Mahama tells Akufo-Addo

    Corruption has broken loose, Ghanaians are now tired of you – Mahama tells Akufo-Addo


    In a recent address, former President John Mahama strongly criticized the Akufo-Addo administration, alleging that it has led Ghana into a state of rampant corruption.

    Speaking during an end-of-year session with current Members of Parliament and prospective 2024 NDC parliamentary candidates, Mahama asserted that corruption remains a significant obstacle hindering the country’s progress.

    He emphasized that attempts to curb corruption have proven ineffective and, instead, the issue has worsened over time. Mahama underscored the urgent need for decisive action to address the pervasive problem and its detrimental impact on Ghana’s development.

    “Currently, corruption has broken loose and it is running riot all over the country. Indeed, Ghanaians have developed the syndrome I call scandal fatigue because if you have a scandal every week, you get tired, so everybody is tired of talking about NPP’s corruption.

    “Just when you think you have seen the worst of it, they rise to even new levels that you can never imagine. One of those being the recent SML agreement. One wonders how they could have sat and conspired to rip off the nation with such a contract,” he said.

    Mr. Mahama’s critique of the Akufo-Addo administration coincides with a robust defense put forth by the President regarding his track record in addressing corruption. During the launch of the assessment of Ghana’s inaugural national anti-corruption action plan, President Akufo-Addo vehemently refuted the label of being a “clearing agent.”

    According to President Akufo-Addo, “Every single alleged act of corruption levelled against any of my appointees has been investigated by individual bodies such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and some cases by Parliament.”

    “It is not my job to clear or convict a person accused of wrongdoing or of engaging in any acts of wrongdoing. Despite the efforts of some to tag me as a clearing agent.

    “That is the job of the courts and the law enforcement agencies. My job is to act on allegations of corruption by referring the issues to the proper investigative agency for the relevant inquiry and action including if necessary the suspension of the affected official pending the conclusion of the investigation, that is exactly what has been done since I assumed the mantle of leadership,”he said.

    He noted since he assumed office as President, “no evidence or allegation has been forthcoming that the Executive i.e. myself as President has made any attempt to influence the outcome of any of these investigations. The latest episode involving the former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah is evident for all to see.”

    He also said the country has made remarkable progress in the fight against corruption under his administration.

  • NPP and NDC cannot fight corruption, try Alan – Movement for Change

    NPP and NDC cannot fight corruption, try Alan – Movement for Change

    Director of Communications for the Movement for Change, Courage Nobi, has expressed the belief that Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen is the most suitable leader for Ghana to effectively combat corruption.

    Mr Nobi contends that both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) have fallen short in addressing corruption during their respective tenures in power.

    According to Nobi, corruption has been a persistent issue during the years of governance by both major political parties. He sees Alan Kyerematen as the ideal leader to tackle this problem and bring about positive change in the country.

    “We cannot force ourselves to choose between the NPP and NDC because neither of them is providing Ghanaians with a choice in 2024. There is no difference between the two parties when you look at them, and that is why going forward in 2024 and beyond, the fight against corruption cannot be won by these two political parties but by a leader who has a track record of integrity and that is Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen.”

    Courage Nobi emphasized that corruption is pervasive under the current government, and he projected that it could worsen in 2024.

    He called on political leaders to take responsibility for combating corruption by setting examples through their own actions and conduct.

    “The frustration is that you don’t finish discussing one scandal before another pops up, and that tells you how endemic corruption is, and I am afraid of how we will be swamped by scandals next year.

    “You cannot fight corruption with the mere passage of laws, guidelines, and action plans. The best and easiest way to fight corruption is to be an example, be incorruptible, don’t participate, and make sure your family and friends do not participate and when you can deal with that, then you can deal with those who even attempt to be corrupt.”

  • Independent bodies investigate corruption, not I – Akufo-Addo

    Independent bodies investigate corruption, not I – Akufo-Addo


    President Akufo-Addo emphasized that his role in addressing corruption allegations is not to exonerate or condemn individuals but to ensure due process through independent bodies.

    During a public event, he highlighted the significance of upholding the rule of law and independent investigations when dealing with corruption accusations against government appointees.

    Akufo-Addo stressed the importance of respecting institutions responsible for detecting, prosecuting, and punishing corruption crimes, emphasizing that such institutions should be accorded the necessary respect unless their conduct is proven otherwise.

    He mentioned that every alleged act of corruption against his appointees has been subject to investigation by independent bodies, including CHRAJ, CID of the police, and, in some cases, by parliament itself.

    “It is important for the rule of law that the public institutions responsible for detection and prosecution and the punishment of corruption of crime be accorded respect until their own conduct is impeached. If that respect is not accorded to the foundation, an orderly government can be easily subverted to the loss and pain of each and everyone of us. That is why so far, every single alleged act of corruption levelled against any of my appointees has been investigated by independent bodies such as CHRAJ,CID of the police and in some cases by parliament itself.

    “It is not my job to clear or convict any person accused of wrongdoing or engaging in acts of wrongdoing despite the effort of some who tag me as the clearing agent,” he said.

    He affirmed that he does not interfere in the affairs of the institutions responsible for investigating his appointees and highlighted that the court and law enforcement agencies are tasked with clearing or convicting individuals based on the outcome of investigations.

    “That is the job of the court and the law or enforcement agencies. My job is to act on allegations of corruption by referring the issues to the appropriate agencies for the relevant enquiry and actions and if necessary the suspension of the affected official pending the conclusion of the investigation. That is exactly what has been done since I assumed the mantle of leadership since January 2017,” he noted.