John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has taken a strong stance against corruption, vowing not to protect any appointees involved in corrupt activities if he becomes president in the upcoming December elections.
Mahama committed to working with relevant authorities to recover funds and properties obtained through corrupt means. He emphasized that his administration would thoroughly investigate allegations of corruption against public officials, their families, and friends. This approach would apply equally to officials from the current NPP government and his own future appointees.
He highlighted the case of former Sanitation Minister Cecilia Abena Dapaah, who controversially had over $1 million stolen from her Abelemkpe residence by domestic staff.
In a live Facebook address, Mahama acknowledged the frustration of the youth towards the Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia-led Economic Management Team. He pointed out that Ghana’s national debt has soared from GH¢120 billion to an alarming GH¢658.6 billion, exacerbating daily hardships.
Mahama also criticized the poorly managed banking sector clean-up, which resulted in the loss of over 10,000 jobs and a debt of GH¢25 billion, fueling further discontent among the youth.
In contrast, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has denied allegations of tolerating corruption within his administration. He asserted that his government has implemented significant reforms to enhance the capacity of institutions to combat public sector corruption. Despite being labeled a “clearing agent” by some critics, Nana Addo reaffirmed his commitment to fighting corruption, emphasizing the importance of adhering to due process in these efforts.
Speaking at the 2023 Ghana Bar Association Conference at the University of Cape Coast on September 11, 2023, Nana Addo reiterated his determination to eliminate corruption, regardless of the criticism he faces.
