Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL): A Critical Analysis and Overview

Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) is an initiative launched by President-elect John Dramani Mahama before formally assuming office. The primary objective of ORAL is to recover misappropriated public funds and state properties, addressing corruption and promoting accountability in government. While the initiative has garnered support from anti-corruption advocates, it has also faced criticism and allegations from members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), who question its legality and motives.

Suspicion and Allegations

NPP loyalists have raised several suspicions and allegations regarding ORAL:

1. Legality: Critics argue that President Mahama lacked the legal authority to establish ORAL as he was only the president-elect at the time. They claim that the formation of the committee contravenes the provisions of the Whistleblowers Act, which specifies the entities to whom whistleblowers can report.

2. Political Motives: Some NPP members believe that ORAL is a politically motivated tool aimed at targeting former government officials and members of the opposition. They argue that the initiative undermines the authority of existing constitutional bodies already empowered to investigate corruption.

3. Harassment: There are concerns about potential harassment and unlawful intrusions into the homes of former government officials under the guise of ORAL operations. Critics argue that such actions are unconstitutional and undermine the rule of law.

Benefits of ORAL

Despite the criticisms, ORAL has several potential benefits in the context of good governance and accountability:

1. Promoting Accountability: ORAL aims to hold government officials accountable for their actions, ensuring that public resources are used for the benefit of all citizens. By recovering misappropriated funds and properties, the initiative can help restore public trust in government institutions.

2. Deterrence: The establishment of ORAL serves as a deterrent to corruption, signaling a strong commitment to transparency and good governance. This can discourage future misconduct and promote ethical behavior among public officials.

3. Resource Recovery: Recovering stolen assets and funds can provide much-needed resources for critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. This can contribute to the nation's socio-economic development and improve the quality of life for citizens.

Recommendations and International Comparisons

To ensure the success and credibility of ORAL, the following recommendations are made, drawing on international practices in governance and accountability:

1. Legal Framework: ORAL should operate within a clear legal framework that aligns with Ghana's constitutional provisions and international standards. This includes adhering to the principles of the Whistleblowers Act and ensuring that the committee's actions are legally justified.

2. Transparency and Public Involvement: Transparency is crucial for building public trust. ORAL should ensure that its processes and findings are transparent and accessible to the public. Public involvement in the process can enhance credibility and accountability.

3. Collaboration with Existing Institutions: ORAL should collaborate with existing anti-corruption bodies such as the Office of the Special Prosecutor, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). This can prevent duplication of efforts and ensure a coordinated approach to fighting corruption.

4. International Best Practices: Drawing on successful examples from the USA, UK, Canada, and Europe, ORAL should adopt best practices in governance and accountability. This includes implementing robust checks and balances, promoting ethical leadership, and leveraging technology for efficient operations.

The debate surrounding the legality of Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) stems from differing interpretations of Ghana's 1992 Constitution. Critics argue that ORAL lacks a legal basis, as President-elect John Dramani Mahama was not yet in office when the initiative was established. However, proponents, including Attorney General-designate Dr. Dominic Ayine, assert that ORAL aligns with the constitutional principles of accountability and good governance. The preamble of the 1992 Constitution emphasizes the importance of accountability, which ORAL seeks to uphold by recovering misappropriated state resources. While the legal debate continues, the initiative's alignment with constitutional values suggests that it has a legitimate foundation within Ghana's legal framework.

Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) has the potential to significantly enhance accountability and transparency in Ghana's governance. By addressing the concerns raised by critics and adopting international best practices, ORAL can effectively combat corruption and contribute to the nation's socio-economic development. Ensuring a clear legal framework, transparency, collaboration with existing institutions, and adherence to international standards will be key to the initiative's success.

#Retired Senior Citizen

Teshie-Nungua