Accra, Ghana—The Center for National Interest and Research (CNIR-GH) today called on the government to take immediate action to address the persistent issue of corruption and impunity in Ghana’s politics.
According to Engr. Dr. Dzabaku Kudiabor Ocansey, Executive Director of CNIR-GH, “The phenomenon of presidents intervening in alleged corruption cases involving their appointees undermines the rule of law and perpetuates impunity. This trend has severe implications for Ghana’s democracy.”
The CNIR-GH noted that the former President, Nana Akuffo Addo, was criticized for being perceived as a “clearing agent” for his appointees accused of corruption.
Similarly, allegations have surfaced that the current Attorney General and Minister of Justice have discontinued all pending corruption cases against politicians within the current government.
“The time has come for Ghana to adopt a new strategy to handle corruption cases and strengthen our democracy,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey.
“We urge the government to take concrete steps to prevent presidential interference in alleged corruption cases and ensure that thorough investigations are conducted and those found guilty are held accountable.”
The CNIR-GH emphasized that Ghana’s focus should be on building a nation with strong institutions, rather than prioritizing temporal governments and political parties’ interests.
“We must recognize that our nation’s prosperity and stability depend on the strength of our institutions, not the interests of individual politicians or their respective political parties,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey.
Furthermore, the CNIR-GH expressed concern that Ghana’s presidential clearance system should not be used as a backdoor to indirectly legalize corruption among politicians.
“It’s essential that we address this issue to prevent the perpetuation of impunity and promote transparency and accountability in government,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey.
The CNIR-GH also emphasized the critical role of professionals in public institutions in defending the integrity of their institutions and professions.
“Professionals in public institutions must stand up to defend their professions and professional codes of ethics,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey. “They must not allow themselves to be used by politicians to bring down our institutions and professions. It’s time for professionals to take a firm stance against corruption and impunity.”
The CNIR-GH cited the example of Lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata, who was falsely accused of corruption but successfully cleared his name, as a model for politicians and public officials to follow.
“The new NDC government could have used this case to fight their way to innocence, demonstrating the importance of transparency and accountability,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey.
“All Presidents, politicians, and political appointees should learn from this example,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey. “No crime has an expiring date, and it’s possible that a president can clear you today, but a future president will not. Civil society organizations, individuals, and Ghanaians will not get it if things are not done the right way.
We will not produce good citizens and strong institutions in our democracy if we do not prioritize transparency, accountability, and good governance.”
As Ghana approaches its centenary anniversary in 2057, the CNIR-GH emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in the country’s politics.
“It’s time to move Ghana from extreme partisan politics of divisiveness and corruption, build an inclusive welfare State economic Society towards a developed Nation status on or before 2057,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey.
To address corruption, the CNIR-GH recommends:
– Strengthening institutions, such as the Office of the Special Prosecutor and others
– Promoting transparency in government dealings and procurement processes
– Encouraging whistleblowing and protecting those who report corruption
– Improving judicial accountability and ensuring transparency in the handling of corruption cases
“Corruption is more deadly than COVID-19, and the fight against corruption requires a collective effort,” said Engr. Dr. Ocansey. “We call on all Ghanaians, civil society organizations, and the media to join us in demanding accountability and transparency from our leaders.”
Engr. Dr. Dzabaku Kudlabor Ocansey
Executive Director
Center for National
Interest and Research
+233 (0) 302093179
+233 (0) 555432444
info@cnirghana.org
