The Center for National Interest and Research (CNIR-GH) has urged the government to take immediate and decisive action to combat corruption and strengthen Ghana’s democratic institutions.
The organization stressed the damaging effects of political interference in corruption cases, warning that the trend undermines the rule of law and fosters impunity.
Engr. Dr. Dzabaku Kudiabor Ocansey, Executive Director of CNIR-GH, in a statement, expressed deep concern over the perception that some Ghanaian presidents have shielded appointees accused of corruption.
“The phenomenon of presidents intervening in alleged corruption cases involving their appointees undermines the rule of law and perpetuates impunity. This trend severely affects Ghana’s democracy,” Dr. Ocansey stated.
He cited past concerns that former President Nana Akufo-Addo was perceived as a “clearing agent” for accused government officials. Similarly, there are growing allegations that the current Attorney General and Minister of Justice have discontinued pending corruption cases involving members of the current administration.
Dr. Ocansey stressed that Ghana needs a new approach to tackling corruption, free from political interference.
CNIR-GH emphasized that Ghana’s long-term stability and prosperity depend on the strength of its institutions rather than the political survival of parties or individuals.
“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,” Dr. Ocansey stated.
The organization also raised concerns about the misuse of presidential clearance mechanisms, warning against their potential to legalize corruption indirectly.
*\”It’s essential that we address this issue to prevent impunity and promote transparency and accountability in government,” he added.
CNIR-GH urged public sector professionals to uphold their integrity and resist political pressure that could weaken democratic institutions.
He cited the example of Lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata, who was wrongly accused of corruption but later cleared his name. Dr. Ocansey suggested that public officials and politicians should follow such examples by ensuring transparency and accountability.
“No crime has an expiration date. A president may clear you today, but a future president may not. We must build a nation where the rule of law is upheld, and impunity is eradicated,” he warned.
As Ghana approaches its centenary in 2057, CNIR-GH stressed the need for a political transformation that moves the country beyond partisan politics and corruption.
*”It’s time to transition from extreme partisan politics of divisiveness and corruption to an inclusive welfare state with a strong economic foundation. Ghana must work towards achieving developed nation status by 2057,” Dr. Ocansey declared.
CNIR-GH outlined key recommendations for addressing corruption, including: Strengthening institutions like the Office of the Special Prosecutor; Enhancing transparency in government dealings and procurement processes; Encouraging whistleblowing and providing protection for informants and; Improving judicial accountability, and ensuring fair prosecution of corruption cases
Dr. Ocansey likened corruption to a greater threat than COVID-19, emphasizing that Ghanaians must unite to combat it.
“Corruption is more deadly than COVID-19, and the fight against it requires a collective effort. We call on all Ghanaians, civil society organizations, and the media to join us in demanding accountability and transparency from our leaders,” he stressed.