Evans Tsiktata: The OSP’s corruption-free journey

Ghana’s political landscape is devastated by a malignant culture of corruption, in which self-serving politicians brutally exploit their opponents’ weaknesses while blatantly ignoring their own heinous wrongdoings.

Truth is ruthlessly twisted for political benefit, feeding a vicious cycle of hypocrisy and deception.

Mr. Haruna Mohammed’s caustic assessment of the OSP’s Airbus inquiry as “lazy” is completely unfounded and inappropriate.

Despite the OSP’s thorough investigation, which found no evidence of bribery, exonerated John Mahama, and verified correct procurement standards, Mohammed continues his vendetta, revealing his clear political opportunism and disrespect for truth and justice.

The Office of the Special Prosecutor’s scathing investigation into the Airbus bribery scandal has set a blistering new standard for anti-corruption efforts, triumphantly exposing the truth and shattering the notion of impunity.

This fearless, meticulous, and uncompromising inquiry has sent a resounding message: no one is above the law, and all must be prepared to face scrutiny without exception. The era of accountability has dawned, and the corrupt would do well to tremble.

Regrettably, the OSP’s findings are just the tip of the iceberg. The damning revelations in Mr. Manasseh Azure Awuni’s book, “The President Ghana Never Got”have shed light on the widespread bribery and corruption that have become the norm, even at the highest levels of government.

The fact that our legislators, from both the majority and minority parties, have been involved in these unscrupulous practices is a damning indictment of the state of our democracy.

It is absolutely unacceptable that the President and his administration appear unwilling to take decisive actions against these transgressions.

The notion that such blatant corruption is considered as “normal” is a testament to the deep-rooted Malaise that has consumed our political landscape. How can we expect the people of Ghana to have faith in their government when those entrusted with the public’s trust are perpetuating a culture of graft?

The revelations that the Chief of Staff’s office routinely provides cash to Members of Parliament, especially during the vetting process, are particularly alarming. This practice not only undermines the integrity of our institutions but also calls into question, the very legitimacy of our democratic processes.

Manasseh Azure’s book also reveals Databank, co-founded by Ken Ofori-Atta, earned $9.2 million from Ghana’s borrowing between 2018 and 2021.

The company’s frequent contracts after Ofori-Atta became Finance Minister raise questions about conflicts of interest and personal gain from government decisions.

The OSP’s handling of the Airbus case has demonstrated that with the right leadership, independence, and resolve, it is possible to root out corruption.

The decision to close the investigation and rescind the arrest warrants for the intermediaries is a bold and principled move that reinforces the notion that in Ghana, no one is above the law.

This outcome stands in stark contrast to the impunity that has long characterized the treatment of high-profile individuals accused of corruption.

Now, it is time for the government to heed the lessons of the Airbus case and apply the same level of rigor and impartiality to the numerous other corruption allegations that have plagued our nation.

The well-being and future prosperity of Ghana’s citizens depends on a steadfast commitment to eradicating corruption at every level of government and society.

The OSP’s diligence and unwavering adherence to the rule of law should serve as a blueprint for all investigative bodies in Ghana. In fighting the scourge of corruption that has so long held back our country, the President and his administration should show the same courage and conviction as they did in the Airbus case.

The people of Ghana deserve better. We demand transparency, accountability, and a government that truly serves the interests of the people, not the personal agendas of a privileged few.

The time for empty promises and half-measures has long passed. We call on the President and all duty-bearers to take decisive and immediate action to uproot the cancer of corruption that threatens to undermine the very foundations of our democracy.

Ghana’s future is at stake. The time for action is now. Let us heed the lessons of the Airbus case and embark on a new, corruption-free chapter in our nation’s history.

Source: Evans Mawunyo Tsiktata