Desist From Activities That Are Likely To Corrupt

Takoradi, Dec. 10, GNA- Ms Joyce Cudjoe, the Western Regional Focal Person for Ghana Anti -Corruption Coalition, has called on Ghanaians to desist from all forms of corrupt acts.

She said for corruption to be eradicated, Ghanaians needed to be aware of the extent of corruption in the country and it's effects on the economy and called on the public to report any corrupt official to the CHRAJ, NCCE or the police.

Ms Cudjoe said this on Saturday after a walk was held to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day in Takoradi.

The walk which begun at about 0840 hrs at the Takoradi Presbyterian Trinity Church proceeded through the principal streets of Takoradi - Amanful, Paa Grant Roundabout, PWD Street and ended at the Takoradi Central Market.

Enthusiastic participants made up of the Ghana Police Service, Ghana National Fire Service, Drivers and officials of the Vehicle License Authority, National Commission for Civil Education, civil servants, market women and youth organizations, carried placards some of which read, ''Ghana, Say No To Corruption; Know Your Rights; Don't Be A Spectator, Report Corruption; Refuse to Take Bribe; Corruption Robs The Future of Your Children; Corruption Threatens Our Future; Corruption Creates Poverty''.

International Anti-Corruption Day is marked every year on December 9 to raise national awareness by sensitizing the public on the cost of corruption as well as mobilize citizens to support the fight against corruption.

This year's celebration was held under the theme: ''NACAP: Strengthening Public, Private, and Civil Society, Partnership in the fight against corruption''.

Mr Allen Osei Akoto, a representative from GACC-Accra, said the public have the right to demand for accountability from their district assemblies.

''As people we must know that our daily contributions can generate better education, social amenities and for that matter there is the need to know how the money we contribute is being used."

"The little money you pay to the assembly, you have the right to go to them and demand for accountability but if they refuse, report the case to GACC centres'' he said.

Mr Akoto said there is the need for individuals to tender in evidence for verification before reporting any case of corruption.

Mr Bernard Oduro Akoto, a Legal Practitioner, said corruption was a sin and the Constitution also frowns on it and that it is important for all hands to be on deck in the fight against it.

He also called on all to support the effort to ensure the complete elimination of corruption from public institutions.

Mr Bernard Barker, Berea Social Foundation, said the need for citizens to halt the practice of offering bribes to officials when their mandated services are required.

GNA
By Francisca S. Atta-Eyison, GNA