Attorney-General Advocates Transparency in Anti-Corruption Efforts
Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame advocates for transparency and accountability in combating corruption, urging investigative bodies in Africa to openly disclose investigation outcomes regarding corruption allegations.
In a resounding call for transparency and accountability in the fight against corruption, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has urged investigative bodies across Africa to boldly disclose the full results of investigations into allegations of corruption against government officials, especially when such allegations are found to be untrue.
Addressing the 14th Commonwealth Regional Conference of Heads of Anti-Corruption Agencies in Africa, hosted in Accra, Ghana, Mr. Dame emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust by openly acknowledging when corruption allegations are baseless or unsubstantiated. He highlighted that such transparency not only boosts public confidence in governance but also contributes to improving the corruption perception index of respective countries.
Acknowledging the misconception that every public office holder is corrupt, Mr. Dame urged investigative authorities to refrain from sensationalism and to prioritize honesty and integrity in disclosing investigation outcomes. He emphasized that fostering a culture of transparency and honesty is essential for effective anti-corruption efforts.
The conference, held under the theme "Strengthening Institutions in Promoting Transparency: A Means of Fighting Corruption in Commonwealth Africa," convened heads of anti-corruption agencies from 20 Commonwealth African countries. Discussions centered on innovative strategies and solutions to combat corruption effectively.
Mr. Dame underscored Ghana's commitment to transparency and accountability, citing the passage of the Right to Information Act, 2019, and amendments to the Whistleblower Act, 2006, which introduced a reward system for whistleblowers. Additionally, he highlighted various legislative measures aimed at deterring and eliminating corruption, including the Revenue Administration (Amendment) Act, 2020, and the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020.
The Executive Director of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), Commissioner of Police (COP) Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo Danquah, commended the government for its support in hosting the conference. She stressed the importance of collective efforts in combating corruption, emphasizing that corruption undermines societal fabric and economic development.
Assistant Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Prof. Luis Franceschi, warned of the pressure on governance and emphasized the need for efficient and transparent governance to combat corruption effectively. He highlighted the challenges faced by anti-corruption agencies, particularly regarding their independence and the difficulties in investigating those who appoint them.
The Deputy British High Commissioner to Ghana, Keith McMahon, reiterated the global significance of fighting corruption, emphasizing the need for partnership among countries. Dr. Roger Oppong Koranteng, Head of Public Sector Governance at the Commonwealth Secretariat, commended the progress made by the Association of Anti-Corruption Agencies in the Commonwealth (AAAC) and emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared learning in the global fight against corruption.
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