The Citizens Coalition, an anti-corruption group in the country in a stern and resolute address has outlined a series of demands aimed at fostering transparency and accountability within the government.
The Coalition in a press conference addressed by Dr Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement at the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) emphasized the urgent need for the government to take measures to combat corruption and ensure the prudent use of public resources.
Dr. Asante began the calls for the demand by underscoring the urgent need for the government to fully disclose the KPMG report on the SML, GRA, and Ministry of Finance agreement.
While acknowledging the release of a summary of the report by the Presidency, Dr Asante highlighted lingering uncertainties and disputes surrounding the report’s contents, stressing that the publication of the complete report is crucial in serving the public interest and dispelling any doubts regarding the findings of KPMG audit.
“We have to remember, that this matter would not have come out if the Fourth Estate did not conduct it investigations of the issues. We want to get the full understanding of what KPMG may have found out during its audit and then we can take it from there.
“I have been asking myself how is that we are accepting that all these infractions and contract manipulations happened and no one is being held accountable for it. Now, even KPMG’s integrity and credibility are as stake”.
Dr Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement, CDD-Ghana
Furthermore, the Citizens Coalition demanded transparency regarding the sources of funds discovered in the possession of Madam Cecilia Dapaah, including those allegedly stolen by her house help.
Dr Asante urged the Criminal Investigative Department of the Police Service to release its report on the matter and further urged the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) to reconsider its decision not to investigate Madam Dapaah’s case for alleged money laundering in accordance with Section 13 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act.
Stakeholder Engagement in Legislation
A key focal point of the Coalition’s demands is the inclusion of stakeholders in the development of legislation aimed at enhancing accountability and combating corruption.
Dr. Asante underscored the necessity of coordinated efforts among anti-corruption agencies, advocating for comprehensive legislation to streamline their activities, stressing that comprehensive legislation is indispensable in fortifying the nation’s resolve against corruption.
Touching on the delay in the passage of the Conduct of Public Officeholders Bill, Dr Kojo Pumpuni Asante called for the immediate approval and enactment of the Bill.
He emphasized that the proposed legislation seeks to address shortcomings in the current Asset Declaration and Liability regime, as well as regulate public ethical behaviour such as influence peddling and conflict of interest.
The Citizens Coalition also underscored the importance of robust sanctions and public disclosure of assets and liabilities to deter corruption effectively.
“We, as a coalition are convinced that this is a critical piece of legislation in our fight against corruption, particularly in terms of prevention of corruption.
“We are also convinced that the bill, which has been languishing in the corridors of power for over a decade should include the provision of unexplained wealth, strong sanction regimes and a publication of assets and liabilities of public officers”.
Dr Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement, CDD-Ghana
Expressing concern over the politicization of state-owned enterprises, the Coalition strongly called for the withdrawal of parliamentary aspirants appointed to lead such entities.
Dr Asante decried the practice as insensitive to the nation’s economic plight and detrimental to good governance.
Touching on the controversial sale of some State-Owned Hotels belonging to SSNIT, the Citizens Coalition demanded a thorough investigation into the sale of SSNIT 60% shares in its four state-owned hotels to Honorable Bryan Achemapong, citing allegations of conflict of interest, abuse of power, and lack of due process.
Dr. Asante echoed the Trade Union Congress and Organized Labour’s call to halt the transaction immediately pending a comprehensive inquiry.
Lastly, the Citizens Coalition urged the Ministry of Finance and other relevant government agencies to disclose full details of the Pwalugu multi-purpose dam project, including its current status and payments made to contractors.
Dr. Asante emphasized the public’s right to know how government funds are utilized, underscoring the imperative of transparency in large-scale infrastructure projects.
In conclusion, Dr. Asante reiterated the Citizens’ Coalition’s unwavering commitment to holding the government accountable and combating corruption at all levels.
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