By: Ashiadey Dotse
The Movement for Change has asked President John Dramani Mahama to merge several anti-corruption agencies to strengthen the fight against corruption. The group believes that combining the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the Criminal Investigative Department (CID), and the National Security will improve efficiency and make their work clearer.
At a press conference in Accra on February 18, 2025, the group explained that merging these agencies would help define corruption-related crimes more clearly and introduce stricter punishments for public officials and political appointees found guilty.
The Movement for Change also suggested that all public officials be required to declare their assets and undergo lifestyle audits. These declarations should be checked regularly to ensure officials do not acquire unexplained wealth while in office. This, they believe, will discourage corruption.
Another key proposal from the group is to reform Ghana’s procurement system. They argue that the current system allows contracts to be awarded based on political connections rather than merit. By changing the laws, the group hopes to ensure fairness and accountability in government spending.
The movement also wants to involve citizens in the fight against corruption. It is proposing an Anti-Corruption Citizens’ Charter that will allow the public to act as watchdogs. This charter will provide legal protection for whistleblowers and offer rewards to those who expose corruption. The group also called for more support for civil society organizations that fight corruption.
According to the Movement for Change, the government must take serious action against corruption instead of making promises without results. They insist that without strong laws and independent institutions, corruption will continue to harm the country and reduce public trust in the government.
