Professor Ransford Gyampo has stated that the Judiciary is answerable to the Ghanaian people, not itself, disagreeing with Kwesi Pratt’s view that the current Judiciary is likely to hinder the prosecution of corrupt officials, suggesting instead that they will be held accountable for their actions.
He stated bluntly that if the next government faces opposition from the judiciary in its fight against corruption, the judiciary will equally face the wrath of the Ghanaian people.
“I shared the same platform with you [Kwesi Pratt], as you delivered a great lecture to commemorate the 12th Anniversary of the passing of Prof Mills. You said all the right things. But respectfully, I disagree with your assertion that it would not be easy for the next government to prosecute corrupt officials of the current regime, as the judiciary is likely to frustrate such effort”.
Professor Ransford Gyampo
Professor Gyampo fully concurs with Kwesi Pratt that the next government must prioritize enhancing the welfare of the people and delivering quality service to them.
However, he emphasizes that this alone will be insufficient, suggesting that more needs to be done.
The Political Scientist emphasized that individuals who have broken the law and engaged in corrupt practices must face equal consequences to prevent the perpetuation of impunity and ensure the stability and continuity of the Fourth Republic.
As such, he warned that any careless or unintentional message that suggests a return to the status quo or “business as usual” when there is a change in power could jeopardize the very existence of the Fourth Republic.
“It is important that this message is sent clearly to whoever takes over the reins of government, those looting state resources, and those expected to adjudicate matters to bring about justice”.
Professor Ransford Gyampo
Kwesi Pratt’s Claim To Undermine Anti-Corruption Efforts
Professor Ransford Gyampo stated that Kwesi Pratt’s assertion that the next government would face opposition from the Judiciary in its efforts to prosecute corrupt officials could potentially undermine the public pledge made by some 2024 election contenders to not follow in the footsteps of Professor Mills, who chose not to prosecute over 100 corrupt officials despite charges being filed against them.
Moreover, he emphasized that Kwesi Pratt’s assertion could not only undermine the public’s trust in the government’s ability to combat corruption but also embolden corrupt officials to engage in even more egregious wrongdoing with a sense of impunity.
“So, by all means, let the next government focus on providing the basic needs of the Ghanaian people. But let corrupt officials also be dealt with according to the laws of the country, as a way of preventing unscrupulous people from overthrowing our constitution and guaranteeing the sustenance of the Fourth Republic. Let no state institution stand in the way of any regime that decides to take on corrupt officials within itself and outside”.
Professor Ransford Gyampo
He appealed to Ghanaians to reject and not indulge in the unfounded fear that a state institution would obstruct a noble endeavor, but instead, foster a culture of trust and collaboration to drive positive change.
He emphasized that the impending transformation and the clear consensus of the Ghanaian people, as evident in their vocal demands, should influence the behavior of state institutions, especially those that have been underperforming or acting inadequately.
Professor Gyampo warned that any state institution that tries to thwart the aspirations of the Ghanaian people, who are united in their quest for positive change, will ultimately face the wrath and collective power of the citizenry, who will assert their sovereign authority to ensure their demands are met.
“Overall, you [Kwesi Pratt] gave a brilliant lecture and I doff my hat for you for the erudite articulation of the key attributes, values, and principles Prof Mills stood for”. – Prof. Ransford Gyampo
READ ALSO: Former Tory MPs Demand Role in Post-Election Analysis
