President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has reaffirmed his administration’s resolute commitment to the fight against corruption, emphasizing that allegations against government appointees were thoroughly investigated and largely found to lack merit.
Speaking during his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Friday, January 3, 2024, the President outlined the measures implemented to fortify institutional frameworks, ensure accountability, and promote transparency in governance.
The President described the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) as a transformative initiative in Ghana’s anti-corruption drive. Acknowledging initial scepticism surrounding its creation, he highlighted the growing recognition of the OSP as a credible and effective institution. He expressed confidence that the systems and reforms established under his administration would continue to yield positive results in Ghana’s governance landscape.
A critical milestone under his leadership was the passage of the Witness Protection Act in 2018. This legislation, he explained, provided a framework to safeguard individuals who collaborated with law enforcement, particularly in corruption-related cases. By addressing the fear of retaliation, the law has empowered citizens to come forward with critical information that aids the fight against corruption.
In addition to this, President Akufo-Addo highlighted the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Act of 2020, which reclassified corruption as a felony. This reform introduced harsher penalties of twelve to twenty-five years of imprisonment for offenders, signaling a shift towards stricter deterrence. According to the President, this measure demonstrated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption and reinforced the seriousness of the offense.
The President also enumerated a series of key legislative actions designed to strengthen Ghana’s institutional framework. The Fiscal Responsibility Act, the Revenue Administration (Amendment) Act, and the Anti-Money Laundering Act were all enacted during his tenure to promote financial discipline, combat illicit financial activities, and ensure the prudent use of public resources. These laws, he stated, were instrumental in fostering a culture of accountability across government institutions.
He defended the integrity of his administration by noting that every allegation of corruption levelled against his appointees was duly investigated by independent state institutions. He emphasized that these inquiries, conducted without political interference, overwhelmingly dismissed the allegations as baseless. This, he argued, reflected the fairness and credibility of the systems his government had established to uphold the rule of law.
Another key aspect of the administration’s anti-corruption efforts was the digitization of public services, which the President described as revolutionary. From the Ghana Card initiative to digital revenue collection systems, these technological advancements have reduced human interference, minimized opportunities for corruption, and enhanced efficiency in service delivery. The President underscored that digitization was a practical solution that streamlined operations while promoting transparency.
Reflecting on his tenure, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the challenges encountered in the fight against corruption but expressed pride in the progress made. He attributed the successes to collective effort, including the contributions of anti-corruption institutions such as the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), and the Auditor-General’s Office. Empowering these institutions with resources and operational independence, he said, ensured their effectiveness and sustainability.
The President also acknowledged that the fight against corruption is an ongoing struggle that requires continuous vigilance and innovation. He urged future administrations to build on the foundations laid during his tenure, emphasizing the need for resilience in combating this pervasive issue. He further called on Ghanaians to remain steadfast in holding public officials accountable, noting that good governance is a shared responsibility that transcends individual administrations.
President Akufo-Addo reiterated his administration’s efforts to create a legacy of transparency and accountability. By strengthening the institutional framework and enacting progressive laws, he sought to inspire confidence in governance and demonstrate that corruption could be tackled through decisive and sustained action. His administration’s commitment to these principles, he asserted, has paved the way for a more transparent and accountable Ghana.
The President also emphasized the broader socio-economic impact of combating corruption. By curbing financial malpractices, his administration ensured that public funds were directed towards national development priorities such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He expressed optimism that these measures would continue to yield dividends, enabling Ghana to achieve its development goals.
In his concluding remarks, President Akufo-Addo extended his gratitude to Ghanaians for their support and patience throughout his tenure. He acknowledged the trust reposed in him and expressed hope that his efforts would inspire a renewed commitment to the ideals of good governance.
As he delivered his final State of the Nation Address, President Akufo-Addo reflected on the progress achieved while recognizing the work that remains. He reaffirmed his belief in Ghana’s potential to overcome challenges and achieve greatness, underscoring that the fight against corruption is a national priority that demands collective effort.
With these parting words, President Akufo-Addo leaves behind a legacy of bold reforms, institutional strengthening, and an unyielding commitment to the principles of accountability and transparency. His administration’s dedication to combating corruption serves as a reminder of the power of governance to effect meaningful change and the enduring importance of integrity in public office.
The President’s message was clear: Ghana’s progress depends on the continued vigilance of its citizens and the sustained commitment of its leaders to uphold the values of transparency and accountability. It is a fight for the soul of the nation, one that must be waged with determination and unity.
