Anti-graft workshop ends at Denu

Denu (V/R), Oct. 2, GNA - A two-day workshop for traditional rulers and workers on fighting corruption ended at Denu in the Ketu district at the weekend.

The workshop, which also discussed ways of enhancing democracy and good governance in the country, was under the theme: "Fighting Corruption, An Agenda For Democracy and Good Governance". At the end of it, the 70 participants called for the strengthening of the capacities of relevant state agencies to spearhead the building of a national psyche against corruption. The Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), local representatives of Transparency International, organized the workshop, in collaboration with the Ketu District Secretariat of the National Commission For Civic Education (NCCE).

Topics treated included "Enhancing Good Governance and Decentralization at the District Level", "Manifestations of Corruption in Ghana" and "Civil Society Organizations and District Assemblies Partnership for Accountability and Good Governance". The participants noted that a well-resourced NCCE would educate and empower the people at the grassroots level to assert their rights to demand accountability from public office holders.

They also called for resources for other state organizations, including the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, to enable them play their investigative roles effectively. There should be more transparency in the disbursement of the District Assemblies Common Fund, the participants urged and called for an early passing of the rights of information bill to make the people more vocal.

Addressing the closing session, Mr Daniel Batidam, Chief Executive of the GII, said if not checked, corruption could inhibit the development of the country.