Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loot: A Team Poised to Tackle Corruption

As Ghana prepares for a new era of governance under President-elect John Dramani Mahama, the formation of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) preparatory team has sparked both optimism and high expectations. This bold initiative is a cornerstone of Mahama’s campaign promise to fight corruption and reclaim stolen state assets. The ORAL team, composed of some of Ghana’s most respected figures in governance, law enforcement, and civil society, is a clear signal that Mahama intends to take decisive action to restore accountability and transparency in public office.

Meet the Team: A Coalition of Integrity and Expertise

Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa

Chairing the ORAL team is North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, a relentless advocate for accountability. Known for his leadership on Parliament’s Committee on Assurances, Ablakwa has earned a reputation for holding public officials to their promises. His analytical approach and commitment to public service make him a natural leader for this critical task.

Daniel Yao Domelevo

The inclusion of former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo is a testament to the seriousness of Mahama’s anti-corruption agenda. Domelevo, celebrated for his fearless audits that uncovered extensive financial irregularities, was controversially removed from office in 2020. His return to the public arena brings unparalleled expertise in financial audits and a proven track record of recovering misappropriated state funds.

Martin Kpebu

A vocal anti-corruption crusader and private legal practitioner, Kpebu has long been at the forefront of civil society’s push for accountability. His relentless pursuit of justice and his ability to navigate the legal system will be instrumental in prosecuting corruption cases and ensuring offenders face the full force of the law.

COP (Rtd.) Nathaniel Kofi Boakye

With decades of experience in law enforcement, retired Commissioner of Police Nathaniel Kofi Boakye adds a critical dimension to the team. Boakye’s background in criminal investigations and his understanding of law enforcement dynamics will guide the ORAL team in building strong cases against perpetrators of corruption.

Raymond Archer

Renowned investigative journalist Raymond Archer has made a career exposing corruption and governance lapses. Archer’s skills in uncovering hidden information and his vast network of sources make him a valuable asset to the team, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice.

The Task Ahead: Expectations and Challenges

The ORAL team’s mandate is as ambitious as it is critical: to lay the groundwork for Mahama’s anti-corruption campaign by gathering credible evidence, recovering stolen assets, and bringing offenders to justice. However, the enormity of this task is not lost on Ghanaians.

Ghanaians expect swift and transparent action that transcends political partisanship. The public has grown weary of empty promises and selective justice, and this initiative represents a chance to restore faith in governance. However, the challenges are considerable:

1. Resistance from Entrenched Interests

Corruption often involves powerful individuals and networks who will resist exposure and prosecution. The ORAL team must be prepared for pushback and potential sabotage.

2. Institutional Overlap

Operating as a new entity, the team must navigate potential tensions with existing institutions like the police, the Auditor-General’s office, and the Special Prosecutor. Collaboration and clear mandates will be key.

3. Judicial Delays

Even with strong evidence, Ghana’s legal system is often slow-moving. The ORAL team must ensure airtight cases to withstand legal challenges and avoid unnecessary delays.

4. Public Expectations

The enthusiasm surrounding this initiative could quickly turn to skepticism if progress is perceived as slow or ineffective. The team must communicate openly with the public about its progress and challenges.

Building for Success: The Roadmap

To overcome these hurdles and meet public expectations, the ORAL team must adopt a strategic approach:

• Leverage Collaboration: Working closely with existing anti-corruption bodies and law enforcement agencies will enhance the team’s effectiveness.

• Public Engagement: Encouraging citizens to report corruption and ensuring confidentiality will broaden the team’s reach and foster public trust.

• Focus on Independence: The team must operate free from political interference, demonstrating that justice is the priority, not partisan gain.

• Showcase Early Wins: Identifying and prosecuting high-profile cases early will send a strong signal that the team means business.

A Defining Moment for Ghana

Operation Recover All Loot is more than just a policy initiative—it is a defining moment for Ghana’s fight against corruption. President-elect Mahama and his ORAL team have the goodwill of the nation, but they also carry the weight of enormous expectations. Success in this endeavour will not only restore stolen assets but also send a powerful message that corruption will no longer be tolerated in Ghana.

This initiative, if executed effectively, has the potential to redefine governance in Ghana. It can rebuild public trust, strengthen institutions, and lay the foundation for a new era of transparency and accountability. However, failure to deliver on this promise will not only erode confidence in Mahama’s leadership but also undermine the nation’s collective hope for change.

As Ghana watches closely, the ORAL team must rise to the occasion, proving that the fight against corruption is more than just a campaign slogan. It is the pathway to a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Ghana.