The leader of the All People’s Congress (APC), Dr. Hassan Ayariga, has called for a profound shift in Ghana’s approach to combating corruption.
Speaking at an anti-corruption forum organized by the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), and the African Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), Ayariga criticized the current strategies as insufficient, urging that a mindset change and a data-driven system are essential to making real progress.
In his speech, Ayariga argued that fighting corruption in Ghana requires more than just laws and enforcement bodies. “Corruption isn’t just about policies; it’s a social issue embedded in our way of life. If we don’t change our attitudes, corruption will remain rooted in our society,” he stated. Ayariga contended that, without this fundamental shift in mindset, even respected institutions would continue to face challenges in their anti-corruption efforts. “Right now, corruption is so deeply ingrained that even revered figures or religious leaders wouldn’t be able to root it out alone,” he warned.
A National Data System for Accountability
Ayariga outlined a bold plan to introduce a comprehensive national data system that would track assets, income, and property ownership across the country. He explained that this system would enable authorities to monitor wealth and financial transactions in real-time, making it difficult for individuals to hide illicit gains. “With a national data system, every asset and income source would be documented, ensuring that everyone is held accountable,” Ayariga said, describing it as a foundation for a transparent, data-driven economy.
He clarified that the proposed data system would go beyond existing registries, capturing detailed information on every Ghanaian’s property and financial activities. Ayariga emphasized that such a system would act as a deterrent to corruption by closing gaps that allow individuals to evade detection.
Critique of the Special Prosecutor’s Office
Ayariga also took aim at the structure of the Office of the Special Prosecutor, arguing that it lacks the independence necessary to effectively fight corruption. He claimed that, as long as the office remains under the Attorney General’s authority, its impact is limited. “For the Special Prosecutor’s Office to truly combat corruption, it must operate autonomously, free from political interference,” he argued.
Reactions and a Call for Reform
Ayariga’s proposals sparked varied reactions among attendees, with some praising his call for a cultural shift and others raising concerns over privacy implications of a national data system. Nonetheless, his message was clear: Ghana’s approach to fighting corruption needs an overhaul, and it starts with both societal change and structural reforms.
As Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections, Ayariga’s ideas contribute to an ongoing debate on anti-corruption strategies, urging leaders and citizens alike to consider a more innovative, comprehensive approach to governance.
Source: Isaac Kofi Dzokpo/newsghana.com.gh
