The Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed that the committee is finalizing its report for submission to President John Dramani Mahama. This announcement follows months of intensive work reviewing numerous cases brought forward by citizens.
According to Ablakwa, the committee has received over 700 petitions from the public, a testament to the widespread interest and involvement of Ghanaians in ensuring accountability within government operations. Speaking to Citi News, the Member of Parliament for North Tongu emphasized that the committee’s efforts align with the administration’s commitment to good governance and accountability.
The ORAL Committee was established to investigate allegations of corruption, misappropriation, and other forms of misconduct within government institutions. Ablakwa expressed confidence in the committee’s dedication to addressing these issues and creating a culture of accountability. He highlighted the political will driving this initiative, which he believes demonstrates the government’s sincerity in addressing malfeasance.
“We are still compiling all the cases and will be presenting our report to the president soon. What I can tell you, avoiding specifics, is that so far, in terms of the petitions that have come in, they are over 700. It has been such a daunting task, but there is the political will,” Ablakwa noted.
He expressed satisfaction with the level of passion and commitment exhibited by the committee, which reflects the government’s determination to uphold the same principles it championed while in opposition. He stressed that this approach serves as a deterrent to individuals who might consider abusing public office, signaling that accountability will remain a priority for the administration.
The committee is now in the final stages of validating the information it has gathered. This process involves meticulously cross-checking and verifying the claims made in the petitions to ensure their accuracy. The chairman underscored the importance of this phase, as it guarantees the credibility and thoroughness of the committee’s findings.
“We are hoping to wrap up soon in the next couple of weeks. We believe that we have gathered enough. We are now virtually done with field validation in the capital where a lot of the looting happened, but we also have reports from across the country,” Ablakwa explained.
He noted that the validation process has already been conducted in Accra, where the majority of the allegations originated. The committee will now extend its efforts to other regions to ensure all cases are given equal attention. This nationwide approach underscores the committee’s commitment to addressing corruption comprehensively and inclusively.
Ablakwa acknowledged the challenges the committee has faced, including the sheer volume of cases and the complexity of some of the allegations. However, he commended the dedication of his team and their unwavering resolve to deliver on the committee’s mandate.
“The work we are doing is not just about compiling reports. It is about setting a standard and sending a clear message that corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated. This initiative is about protecting the public purse and restoring trust in our governance systems,” Ablakwa stated.
The committee’s work has also sparked public interest, with many Ghanaians eagerly awaiting the outcomes of the investigations. Citizens have expressed hope that the findings will lead to concrete actions against individuals found culpable, serving as a strong deterrent to potential offenders.
As the committee prepares to submit its report, Ablakwa assured the public that every effort has been made to ensure fairness and objectivity. He emphasized that the findings will be based solely on verified evidence and will reflect the committee’s commitment to justice and accountability.
The ORAL Committee’s efforts align with the broader goals of President Mahama’s administration to promote transparency and integrity within the public sector. By addressing allegations of corruption and recovering misappropriated funds, the government aims to reinforce public confidence and demonstrate its dedication to ethical leadership.
The submission of the ORAL Committee’s report is expected to mark a significant milestone in the fight against corruption in Ghana. It will not only provide insights into the extent of misconduct within government institutions but also set the stage for necessary reforms and corrective actions. The findings will likely serve as a blueprint for future initiatives aimed at promoting good governance and safeguarding the nation’s resources.
Ablakwa’s leadership has been instrumental in steering the committee through this challenging but essential task. His commitment to transparency and accountability has resonated with many, reinforcing the importance of such initiatives in building a resilient and trustworthy governance framework.
As the committee concludes its work, all eyes are on President Mahama’s administration to ensure that the findings are acted upon promptly and decisively. Ghanaians are hopeful that the outcomes of this initiative will contribute to a culture of accountability and serve as a reminder that no one is above the law.
With over 700 petitions reviewed, validated, and compiled, the ORAL Committee is poised to deliver a comprehensive report that will shed light on the state of governance and accountability in Ghana. This report is not just a testament to the committee’s hard work but also a call to action for all stakeholders to uphold the values of integrity and transparency in public service.
