In a bold declaration of his administration’s unwavering stance against corruption, President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in Ghana’s governance. Speaking at a brief ceremony for the official receipt of the Oral Preparatory Team’s report on Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), the President emphasized that public resources belong to the people of Ghana and must be protected against financial mismanagement and corruption.
ORAL, a government initiative aimed at retrieving misappropriated public funds, has uncovered significant financial leakages, according to the newly presented report. President Mahama lauded the dedication of the task force, which carried out its investigations, legal actions, and asset recoveries without compensation or personal gain. He described their work as a testament to the seriousness with which his government approaches the fight against corruption.
“The diversion of public funds for personal gain undermines development, erodes public trust, and deepens inequality,” President Mahama stated.
“It is for this reason that Operation Recover All Loot was launched—to ensure that what had been wrongfully taken from the state is restored to its rightful owners, the Ghanaian people,” he added.
The report details cases of financial mismanagement that have cost the nation dearly, siphoning resources that could have been invested in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social development. However, the findings also provide a sense of hope, as they demonstrate that through collective efforts, these funds can be reclaimed, and future economic sabotage can be prevented.
In a decisive move, President Mahama immediately handed over the report to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, directing them to initiate swift investigations and, where necessary, pursue legal action against those implicated. He assured the Ghanaian people that all recovered funds would be reinvested into national development projects, while mechanisms would be put in place to safeguard against future financial misconduct.
“To those who think they can defraud the state and escape justice, let this serve as a strong warning—Ghana is no longer a safe haven for corruption,” the President declared.
“To those who stand for integrity, accountability, and the rule of law, I assure you that this government remains your steadfast partner in building a nation where honesty and hard work are rewarded.”
The President called on all stakeholders, including citizens, civil society, the media, and public officials, to join forces in the fight against corruption. He emphasized that collective vigilance and active participation were crucial in fostering a transparent and prosperous Ghana.
“This is a defining moment in our fight against corruption,” he said. “Together, we will build a Ghana that is just, transparent, and prosperous for generations to come.”
With this strong commitment from the highest office in the land, the government’s anti-corruption efforts are expected to gain renewed momentum, as Ghanaians anticipate concrete actions and outcomes from this latest initiative.
By Jeorge Wilson Kingson || GhanaNesOnline