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President Akufo-Addo reaffirms commitment to Anti-Corruption and judicial reforms

The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating corruption and implementing comprehensive judicial reforms. Speaking before a distinguished audience of government officials, legal professionals, and dignitaries, the President outlined the significant legislative and administrative measures taken to enhance transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Ghana.

The President began by highlighting the importance of the rule of law as the cornerstone of a thriving democracy.

He emphasised that the commissioning of the Law House is not merely a celebration of a new building but a testament to the nation’s dedication to upholding justice and equality for all citizens.

“The rule of law ensures that no one is above the law, that justice is administered fairly and impartially, and that the rights and freedoms of every citizen are protected,” he stated.

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Central to the administration’s anti-corruption efforts has been the passage of several critical pieces of legislation.

One such achievement is the Right to Information Act, 2019, which fosters a culture of transparency in public affairs by granting citizens access to information held by public institutions.

The Act, which successive governments had failed to pass, is now being fully implemented, with information officers trained across various government ministries, departments, and agencies to support its application.

“Access to information is a vital tool in the fight against corruption,” President Akufo-Addo noted, adding “and this Act ensures that the right to information is not just a theoretical concept but a practical reality.”

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Another significant legislative measure is the Witness Protection Act, 2018, which established a Witness Protection Agency to offer protection to individuals cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of cases, particularly those involving public officials.

This Act, the President explained, is crucial for ensuring that witnesses can come forward without fear of retribution, thereby strengthening the integrity of the judicial process.

President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Act, 2020, which categorises corruption as a felony and imposes stiffer penalties, including imprisonment of up to twenty-five years.

This amendment, he said, reflects the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and its commitment to imposing severe consequences on those found guilty of corrupt practices.

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In addition to these legislative measures, the administration has undertaken several administrative actions to bolster the fight against corruption. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on information exchange and collaboration in combating corruption and crime has been signed by various government agencies, including CHRAJ, EOCO, the Office of the Attorney-General, and the Police Service.

This collaborative effort aims to enhance coordination and information sharing among key institutions, thereby increasing the effectiveness of anti-corruption initiatives.

The President also emphasised the pivotal role of technology in combating corruption. The introduction of digital platforms for public procurement processes has reduced human intervention and minimised opportunities for corrupt practices.

These platforms have increased transparency, efficiency, and competitiveness in public procurement, ensuring that public resources are used judiciously for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

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“By leveraging technology, we are creating systems that are less susceptible to manipulation and corruption,” President Akufo-Addo stated.

Addressing accusations from political opponents, President Akufo-Addo reiterated his commitment to due process and the rule of law.

He rejected claims that he acts as a “clearing agent” for corruption, stating unequivocally that allegations alone are not sufficient to condemn public officials.

“For my part, I will not set aside due process and the rules of natural justice on the altar of the fight against corruption, no matter how much opprobrium this incurs for me,” he asserted.

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The President recounted a personal anecdote to underscore his commitment to the rule of law. He shared the story of Tawia Adamafio, a former Minister in Ghana’s first republic, who was tried before a Special Criminal Court he had helped establish.

Despite the political context, the court upheld the law and found Adamafio innocent of treason charges, demonstrating the importance of adhering to legal principles even in challenging times.

“The rule of law is the best protection of individual liberty in good times and in bad times,” President Akufo-Addo concluded.

In his closing remarks, the President called on all Ghanaians to uphold the principles of justice, integrity, and the rule of law.

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He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to those who contributed to the realisation of the Law House project, including successive Attorneys-General, architects, engineers, contractors, and the staff of the Ministry of Justice.

“As we open the doors of the Law House, let us do so with a renewed dedication to justice, integrity, and the rule of law,” he urged.

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Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation –Pres.Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has expressed concern over the misuse of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) for personal financial gain by individuals in leadership positions.

Speaking during a meeting with Chief Executives of specified entities under the State Interest and Governance Authority (SIGA) on Thursday, March 13, the President directly attributed the dire state of SOEs to their leadership, accusing chief executives, management teams, and governing boards of prioritising personal enrichment over organisational efficiency.

He pointed to bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures as factors draining public funds while SOEs continue to rely on government bailouts.

“Many SOEs have been used as mere instruments for personal wealth accumulation by appointees. The chief executives, management, and boards of these enterprises are responsible for this situation. Some SOEs have become perennial loss-makers, draining public funds with bloated budgets, unjustified allowances, and unnecessary expenditures while relying on government bailouts as if entitled to them. Many of these entities are at their lowest point in the entire history of the Fourth Republic,” he said.

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President Mahama further noted that many SOEs have been plagued by inefficiencies, corruption, and mismanagement, leading to consistent financial losses. He cited the 2023 State Ownership Report by the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), which highlighted systemic inefficiencies and wasteful expenditures within these entities.

He therefore reaffirmed his commitment to reforming under-performing SOEs and ensuring they serve national interests.

He warned that loss-making SOEs will no longer be tolerated and will either be merged, privatised, or closed.

“I will assess you based on your performance. If you do not align with the pace of the reset agenda, you may be asked to step aside. If that adds to the horror movie, so be it,” he added.

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Source: Myjoyonline.com

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Prophet Courage Heavens set to launch ‘Predestination’ book on March 23

Prophet Courage A. Heavens is set to launch the much-awaited book titled ‘Predestination’ on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 5:00PM.

The launch, which is expected to impact lives, will take place at Crossgates Ministries, Flattop, off N1 Highway, opposite Angel Hauz.

The book is aimed at addressing the way people struggle to understand how free will and destiny align.

It is also aimed at providing clarity on God’s sovereignty and one’s place in His divine plan.

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The various chapters of the book address various issues through scriptures and personal stories.

Committed to impacting society, part of the proceeds from the book will go into Courage Heavens Education Legacy (CHEL), an educational foundation transforming lives.

CHEL is dedicated to providing financial support and mentorship to brilliant but needy students, ensuring they have access to quality education and opportunities for a better future.

Prophet Courage Heavens is a prolific writer and previously authored Eli Eli Lama Sabachthani, a powerful book that encourages unwavering faith in times of trials.

In addition, he has written seven more prophetic and life-changing books that are yet to be published.

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He is dedicated to raising the next generation for impactful ministry. As the leader of Crossgates Ministries, he nurtures believers in faith and purpose.

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