Can the next Government make a difference?

By Joseph Bagah, Senior Assistant Registrar, SDD-UBIDS, Wa.

Ghana is just a few days away from heading to the polls to elect a President and Parliamentarians. One issue dominating the national conversation is corruption. This canker has deeply embedded itself in Ghanaian society, affecting every aspect of life, from healthcare to education, business to governance.

The current government has been accused of presiding over a corrupt administration, with many officials and appointees implicated in various corruption scandals. The opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has seized on these scandals, promising to tackle corruption head-on if elected into office. But can the next government truly make a difference?

Unfortunately, the answer is not straightforward. Corruption is a deeply entrenched problem in Ghana that will require significant effort and strategic planning to eradicate. It demands a fundamental transformation of the country’s institutions and values.

Weak Institutions and Culture of Impunity

One of the main challenges facing any government that seeks to tackle corruption is the lack of strong institutions. Ghana’s institutions, including the judiciary, police, and anti-corruption agencies, are weak and often compromised. This makes it difficult to investigate and prosecute corruption cases or hold corrupt officials accountable. Weak institutions provide fertile ground for corruption to thrive.

Another challenge is the culture of impunity that pervades Ghanaian society. Many Ghanaians have become resigned to corruption, with some even seeing it as a necessary evil or a means to an end. This culture must change if corruption is to be tackled effectively. Ghanaians must take responsibility for their actions and demand accountability from their leaders.

The Way Forward

Despite these challenges, Ghana can make significant progress in tackling corruption with the right commitment, structures, and reforms. Tackling corruption should be made a top priority, with strong institutions, including an independent judiciary and robust anti-corruption agencies, serving as the foundation.

There are examples of successful anti-corruption initiatives in Ghana. For instance, the Ghana Integrity Initiative, a local chapter of Transparency International, has been working tirelessly to promote transparency and accountability in society.

Historically, past leaders have also shown ways to tackle corruption. Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, was known for his strong stance against corruption. He established Ghana’s equivalent of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to investigate and prosecute corruption cases. Similarly, Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, who ruled Ghana from 1981 to 2001, also demonstrated a strong stance against corruption. He established the National Commission for Democracy (NCD) to promote transparency and accountability in government.

What the Next Government Must Do

To make a meaningful impact, the next government must demonstrate an unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. This begins with appointing officials of integrity and providing them with the resources and support they need to work effectively.

Strengthening Ghana’s institutions, particularly anti-corruption agencies, is essential. These agencies must be equipped with adequate funding, personnel, and tools to carry out their mandates without interference.

The next government must also engage in a nationwide campaign to change the culture of impunity. Educating Ghanaians about the dangers of corruption and the importance of integrity and accountability will play a key role.

Additionally, the government must lead by example. Officials should conduct their affairs transparently, remain accountable in all dealings, and willingly subject themselves to scrutiny and criticism.

A Collective Responsibility

Tackling corruption in Ghana requires sustained and concerted efforts from the government and citizens alike. It will demand strong leadership, commitment to transparency and accountability, and a willingness to make difficult, sometimes unpopular decisions.

If the next government is willing to take on this challenge, there is hope that Ghana can begin to make significant progress in the fight against corruption.

The fight against corruption is a collective responsibility. It will require the effort and commitment of all Ghanaians to create a society that is just, equitable, and free from corruption. Together, we can build a stronger and corruption-free Ghana.

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