Ghana needs a wake-up call

In recent years, Ghana's economy has outperformed several global and sub-Saharan African economies, enhancing its profile as an attractive destination for all types of investment. But deepening corruption is plunging the country into an uncertain and turbulent path. Senior political figures are involved in the downfall of the Ghanaian economy.

We must act quickly before it is too late. Ghana, one of the proudest countries in Africa for its culture of democracy and economic dynamism, is turning unattractive. Corruption is at its worst. The country has fallen 48 places in the latest Doing Business rankings and has dropped 24 points in the corruption perception index calculated annually by Transparency Justice.

In this glorious West African country, rogue politicians have managed to normalise the unacceptable. Embezzling public funds or personally interfering in the strategic affairs of the country, for personal gain and in defiance of the rules governing society, has become commonplace.

The latest parliamentary affairs of Ghana's Minister of Finance, Ken Ofori-Atta, are a glaring example of such practices. Despite being formally summoned for his alleged mismanagement of COVID-19 funds, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta refused to appear before parliament on 16 June. He only appeared a week later with vague and unconvincing statements. In addition to this ongoing case, there are other cases of misappropriation of taxpayers' money. In 2019, he told Parliament that GH¢2.75 billion had been saved through a thorough review of sole-source contracts as well as contracts awarded through restrictive tenders. This money was not then used for the welfare of the Ghanaian people. No record of its use has been substantiated by the Ghanaian treasurer. Despite persistent calls from many civil society NGOs for transparency in the management of these funds, Ken Ofori-Atta has not responded.

Its interference in many sensitive issues in sectors as important as mining and hydrocarbons are also pointed out. The scandals continue and international investors are gradually losing confidence.

Corruption requires determination. According to anti-corruption activists, the lack of independence of the judiciary from the executive is one of the reasons for the inability of the judicial system to enforce the law. Ineffective prosecution can encourage forgers and fraudsters.

Worried, Ghanaians are looking to the Head of State Nana Akufo-Addo, who has always claimed that he has always fought against corruption. While it is true that some officials have been charged, the masterminds of the corruption continue to hang around the top of the state.