
As Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama charges his appointees to declare their assets, a critical question remains: why not take it a step further? Voluntarily publishing their assets and those of their spouses would be a bold move, putting clear blue water between the current administration and the previous era marked by allegations of corruption and pillage.
The 8-year period preceding the current administration was marred by widespread corruption, cronyism, and economic mismanagement. The Akyem Mafia, as some have dubbed the most powerful figures of that period, allegedly pillaged Ghana's resources, leaving the country with significant economic and social challenges.
By taking proactive steps towards transparency, the current administration can demonstrate its commitment to accountability and good governance. Voluntarily publishing their assets and those of their spouses would send a powerful message that they have nothing to hide and are committed to serving the public interest.
According to Transparency International's 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, Ghana still faces significant challenges in addressing corruption. With a score of 43 out of 100, Ghana ranks 72 out of 180 countries surveyed. This underscores the need for bold action to promote transparency and accountability in governance.
By voluntarily publishing their assets, public appointees can set a positive tone for the rest of the country. It would also help to:
- Restore trust in public institutions
- Promote a culture of transparency and accountability
- Encourage citizens to demand more from their leaders
- Attract foreign investment and promote economic growth
Transparency leadership is built on the principles of openness, honesty, and clear communication. By adopting this approach, leaders can foster a culture of trust, accountability, and mutual respect within their organizations.
To achieve this, leaders can take practical steps such as:
- Leading by Example: Demonstrating transparency in their daily actions and decisions
- Clear Communication: Ensuring that information is shared openly and honestly
- Sharing Information Freely: Providing critical updates and decision-making processes to employees
- Inviting Feedback: Creating channels for feedback and encouraging employees to share their thoughts and suggestions
- Fostering a Safe Environment: Developing a culture where employees feel safe to express their ideas and concerns
It's time for Ghana's leaders to lead by example, demonstrating their commitment to transparency and accountability. By doing so, they can help promote a culture of good governance and ensure that Ghana's resources are used for the benefit of all citizens, not just a privileged few.
#TransparencyInGovernance #Accountability #GoodGovernance #GhanaDeservesBetter