President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to recovering stolen state resources and ensuring accountability, stressing that the fight against corruption remains a central pillar of his administration.
Addressing journalists at his Presidential Media Encounter, the President assured Ghanaians that the government’s anti-corruption initiative, Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), is progressing steadily and that no individual implicated in the plundering of state funds will escape justice.
“My friends, I understand that public accountability and the recovery of looted state resources are at the top of your expectations from my government. And let me assure you, my fellow citizens, that we have not wavered in our commitment for even a moment.
“Neither have we been complacent. What you are witnessing is not inaction. It is our steadfast adherence to due diligence, due process, and fairness in the pursuit of justice”.
President John Dramani Mahama
While acknowledging public impatience, President Mahama emphasized that the pace of prosecutions is not a reflection of weakness but of deliberate caution to ensure credibility.
“Yes, our insistence on doing things the right way may afford those who have looted this country some temporary relief. But let me be clear, it will not grant them permanent escape”.
President John Dramani Mahama
Providing updates on specific cases under ORAL, the President disclosed that more than 200 cases are currently under active investigation, with about 80 people already interrogated.
According to the President, several prosecutions have begun and are progressing steadily in the courts. He cited Republic v. Adu-Boahene and three others, noting that witness statements and all supporting documents had been filed.
“The trial has commenced, and the first of three prosecution witnesses have been called and have been cross-examined by counsel for the accused person”.
President John Dramani Mahama
High Profile Cases: Sky Train. Etc.
Touching on the high-profile SkyTrain project case, President Mahama announced that prosecutors had secured a trial date following the conclusion of all preliminary matters.
“The trial is set to commence,” he said, signaling the government’s determination to pursue accountability in projects that drained public resources without yielding results.
He also revealed progress on the National Service Authority case, describing it as expansive in scope. Charges have already been drafted and, according to the President, will be filed against individuals, including Dr Osei-Assibey, Eric Nyarkoh, and Gifty Oware once the legal year begins.
Another case drawing significant public interest is the National Cathedral project, which has faced heavy criticism over allegations of mismanagement and misuse of funds. On this, President Mahama said: “We are awaiting a forensic audit from the Auditor General,” adding that the findings will determine the next steps in terms of prosecution.
Further, charges have been prepared in the case of the Republic v. Wuntumi and Akonta Mining. The President disclosed that the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) is finalizing its report on Mr. Wontumi’s Exim Bank transactions. Dockets are also being prepared for the Buffer Stock case and the Drip Equipment case.
Investigations, he continued, are ongoing into the All-African Games case, the Mathematical Set case, and about 20 other corruption-related matters. “Let me be clear, every single case of corruption that needs to be investigated is being looked into, and once evidence is found to ground the prosecution, that will happen, and happen swiftly,” President Mahama assured.
Anti-Corruption Drive anchored on Fairness and Justice
He reiterated that the government’s anti-corruption drive is anchored on fairness and justice, not political vindictiveness. He explained that his administration’s focus is not just to prosecute but to recover stolen resources and restore public trust. “Across multiple fronts, active pursuits and prosecutions are well underway under Operation Recover All Loot,” he remarked.
The President’s reaffirmation comes against the backdrop of heightened public demand for accountability following years of high-profile corruption scandals that rocked the nation. Since assuming office in January 2025, Mahama has pledged to make transparency, integrity, and accountability central to his governance agenda.
As ORAL gathers pace, the government faces the dual challenge of meeting public expectations while navigating the complexities of due process. For President Mahama, the choice is clear: “Every case will be handled with the seriousness it deserves, and justice will not be compromised.”
His remarks, signaling both resolve and caution, suggest that the coming months will be critical for the credibility of his government’s anti-corruption campaign.
The trials and investigations already underway are expected to serve as a litmus test of whether the administration can turn its promises into meaningful accountability and recovery of state resources.
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