Anti-corruption advocate Emmanuel Wilson Jr. has voiced serious concerns regarding the pervasive corruption and impunity in Ghana, suggesting that former President John Mahama is better positioned than Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to address these issues effectively as reported by Ghana Web on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
Wilson, who leads the group Crusaders Against Corruption, attributes the rampant misuse of public funds to a lack of political will from the current Akufo-Addo/Bawumia administration, which has been in power for seven years.
He pointed out that the government’s failure to tackle corruption among its appointees has exacerbated the situation.
In a recent interview on Power Kasiebo with Piesie Okrah, Wilson emphasized the need for reforms in Ghana’s Asset Declaration Act.
This law requires individuals in high government positions to declare their assets before taking office.
He echoed sentiments from former Auditor General Daniel Domelovo, who has called for amendments to strengthen the enforcement of asset declarations to safeguard public funds.
“Currently, Ghana’s Asset Declaration regime is a big joke and needs to be amended,” Wilson stated.
He added that introducing incentives for citizens who report discrepancies in asset declarations could be a significant step toward accountability. “When a future president ensures those laws are amended, politicians who occupy high positions will work with caution,” he stated.
Wilson criticized the current legislative environment, indicating that the existing political landscape makes it challenging to pass effective anti-corruption measures.
He argued that a president genuinely committed to tackling corruption would push for strict adherence to the Asset Declaration Act among appointees.
Reflecting on the current administration, Wilson expressed disappointment, stating that it has squandered the chance to enforce anti-corruption laws.
“The current Vice President, Dr. Bawumia, does not talk about corruption, and it has been so since he assumed office,” he said.
“If there is anyone who can give the country hope in that regard, it is former President John Mahama,” Wilson said
However , Wilson highlighted Mahama’s track record in combating corruption during his presidency.
He praised Mahama for appointing Domelovo as Auditor General and for taking decisive action against corrupt officials, including his own appointee, Abuga Pele, who faced legal consequences for embezzlement.
“Mr. Mahama still talks tough about corruption and has announced he will cancel ex-gratia when voted for,” Wilson said, commending Mahama’s proposed measures to combat corruption.
He concluded that his group will continue advocating for robust anti-corruption initiatives, regardless of the political party in power after the upcoming elections on December 7.