The ongoing fight against corruption in line with John Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) has been marked by robust efforts from key figures such as Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu Constituency, and Mr. Daniel Yaw Domelevo, former Auditor-General, both being members of the anti-corruption team.
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized the urgency of addressing corruption within Ghana’s public institutions.
He cited specific cases of individuals involved in the $108 million ambulance procurement scandal.
“Stephen Okereke left on the 26th of November before the elections. Vivian Oppong Kyekyeku, another key figure in the ambulance scandal, also left. A third person Agyekum Boateng has [also] fled.’’
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa MP for North Tongu Constituency
According to Ablakwa, these departures highlight the necessity of immediate action.
“The president-elect thought it was crucial for this team to commence evidence gathering immediately and take remedial steps to stop the hemorrhage from the gaps,’’ Ablakwa disclosed.
He also addressed the mismanagement of public funds particularly involving eminent clergy. He sympathized; “I have a lot of sympathy for this eminent clergy. I think they were simply misled.’’
He cited the resignations of notable religious figures, such as Bishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams and Rev. Eastwood Anaba, as a testament to their dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of public funds. Ablakwa urged others to follow suit when faced with similar ethical dilemmas.
“I intercepted documents from the finance ministry showing that public funds had been used without the knowledge of parliament, violating the constitution.’’
Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa MP for North Tongu Constituency
This revelation, Ablakwa argued, necessitates a critical reevaluation of the evidence and accountability for those involved.
Daniel Yaw Domelevo: A Call for Strategic Data Gathering
Moreover, Mr. Daniel Yaw Domelevo has underscored the need for a structured approach to tackling corruption.
“It is not true that all corruption or abuses of public funds reside with the Special Prosecutor. Some of the issues may be within the domain of the Auditor-General, others with the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ).’’
Mr. Daniel Yaw Domelevo Former Auditor General
“This time that the President-elect does not yet have a mandate is good for gathering data. Once in office, he can hand over the quantum of data to the relevant institutions,” Mr. Domelevo stated.
Recognizing the challenges involved, Mr. Domelevo highlighted the complexities involved. He emphasized; “Data gathering and making sense out of it is not an easy job, and it can be time-consuming,” while admitting its necessity in ensuring efficient prosecution and accountability.
Both Hon. Ablakwa and Mr. Domelevo lauded the establishment of the anti-corruption team as a forward-thinking measure by President-elect Mahama.
They argued that this proactive approach ensures that vital evidence is preserved, minimizing delays in prosecutorial actions once the new government is operational.
The statements by Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa and Mr. Daniel Yaw Domelevo reflect the challenges and opportunities in Ghana’s fight against corruption.
While Ablakwa highlighted specific cases of misconduct and the need for accountability, Mr. Domelevo focused on the strategic importance of data collection and allocation to relevant authorities.
Together, their perspectives underscore the critical role of proactive governance in addressing systemic corruption and restoring public trust.
However, the work of the anti-corruption team, complemented by the efforts of institutions like the Special Prosecutor’s Office, CHRAJ, and the Auditor-General, is pivotal to achieving a more transparent and accountable government.
As Ghana transitions to a new administration, these measures serve as a beacon of hope for citizens demanding justice and good governance.
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