The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to investigate a series of scandals that have allegedly plagued the country under the leadership of the Akufo-Addo-Bawumia administration. This promise was made by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu, during the launch of the second edition of the party’s 2024 Manifesto.
Speaking at the event, Ablakwa emphasized the NDC’s determination to prioritize good governance, transparency, and accountability if elected in the 2024 general elections. He underscored the party’s intention to thoroughly investigate numerous high-profile cases of alleged corruption and mismanagement that have been reported over the past few years. “We are determined to launch inquiries into the numerous scandals that have rocked the nation under the corrupt Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government,” Ablakwa stated.
He listed several specific cases that would be scrutinized, including Ghana’s management of COVID-19 funds, the controversial Agyapa deal, the Procurement Digital Solutions (PDS) scandal, and the failed Sky Train project. The MP also mentioned the issues surrounding the procurement of Math sets for schools, the Pwalugu Dam project, “Appearance Fees” related to government officials’ travels, ambulance spare parts shortages, and illegal sole-sourced contracts. Ablakwa made it clear that these investigations would aim to hold individuals accountable for any mismanagement of public resources and abuse of power.
Ablakwa elaborated that these inquiries would not be limited to recent scandals but would extend to unresolved cases that have long been a source of public concern. He highlighted the party’s plan to reopen investigations into significant incidents such as the Ayawaso West Wuogon by-election violence and the killings associated with the 2020 elections. Furthermore, the NDC would focus on the unresolved murders of journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale and activist Silas Wulochamey, both of which have drawn international attention and calls for justice.
The North Tongu MP also spoke about the NDC’s intention to tackle the issue of State capture, wherein government resources and policies are allegedly manipulated to benefit a select few. Ablakwa pledged to recover all looted lands across the country, which he claims were unlawfully acquired during the current administration. He stressed that these actions would form part of a broader strategy to restore public confidence in government institutions and promote a culture of integrity in public office.
The NDC’s manifesto, according to Ablakwa, represents a comprehensive roadmap to reversing the alleged misdeeds of the current administration and ensuring that corruption is rooted out of Ghana’s public institutions. The manifesto is built around key principles of transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law. “We are not just talking about change; we are talking about a decisive commitment to clean up our country’s governance system,” Ablakwa asserted.
He called on Ghanaians to support the NDC’s agenda, emphasizing that the investigations would be conducted with fairness and objectivity. “We owe it to the citizens of this country to ensure that justice prevails. We will leave no stone unturned in our quest to investigate and address these scandals,” Ablakwa noted.
Ablakwa further outlined the NDC’s plans to enhance the capacity of key anti-corruption agencies, such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) and the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO). The party intends to provide these agencies with greater resources and independence to investigate and prosecute corruption cases without fear or favor. “We will empower our institutions to work without interference and protect the whistleblowers who provide crucial information,” he added.
In addition to investigating corruption, the NDC manifesto proposes several reforms aimed at preventing future incidents. These include strengthening procurement processes to prevent illegal sole-sourcing, enhancing financial oversight of public funds, and improving transparency in government contracts. The party also plans to introduce new legislation to address gaps in the current legal framework that allow for corruption and abuse of power.
The launch of the NDC’s manifesto comes at a time when public confidence in government institutions is low, and the demand for accountability is high. Many Ghanaians have expressed frustration over the slow pace of investigations and perceived lack of consequences for individuals implicated in corruption scandals. Ablakwa believes that the NDC’s approach will restore trust in the government and demonstrate a commitment to justice and fairness.
In conclusion, the NDC’s promise to investigate the numerous scandals associated with the current administration is a key pillar of its 2024 campaign platform. With a focus on transparency, accountability, and good governance, the party aims to present itself as a credible alternative to the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP). As the election approaches, the NDC’s pledge to fight corruption is likely to be a central theme in its efforts to win the support of the Ghanaian electorate.
