Don't take gifts before you perform your work

Techiman (B/A) Dec 2, GNA - Pastor Appiah-Kubi, an official of the Commission of Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) has denounced the soliciting of bribes and gifts in the performance of official functions.

This practice, he said, whether it occurs in private or public office is against the interest of the public and breeds conflict of interest.

Pastor Appiah-Kubi, who is Brong-Ahafo Regional Investigator and Anti-Corruption Officer of the Commission, encouraged the public to expose officials who indulge in the practice.

He was addressing assembly members, heads of departments, boards and corporations at the Second Ordinary Meeting of the Fifth Session of Techiman Municipal Assembly, on the topic, "Conflict of Interest and the Whistle Blower Act".

Pastor Appiah-Kubi urged public officials to take appropriate steps to avoid such situations and called on heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies to help the staff to develop in-house policies against conflict of interest in conformity with the guidelines of the existing law.

Mr. Alex Kyeremeh, Municipal Chief Executive, asked public officials to exercise their authority in the interest of the people and to eschew tendencies that would compromise their professional duties.

He charged them to expose people who attempt to influence them.

GNA