“Public Confidence in Corruption Fight Key to Avoiding Unrest – Domelevo Tells Akufo-Addo”

Former Auditor General Daniel Domelevo has advised President Akufo-Addo to take drastic measures to enhance public confidence in the political establishment to avoid a Kenya-style public uproar. Domelevo’s advice comes after a finance bill introduced by the Kenyan government in June triggered violent protests that resulted in at least thirty-nine deaths.

Speaking at the 2024 Domelevo Accountability lecture in Accra, Domelevo emphasized the importance of learning from Kenya’s experience and taking proactive steps to address Ghana’s own challenges. He noted that Kenyan President William Ruto’s efforts to address the situation have come too late and urged Akufo-Addo to take note and act promptly.

Domelevo suggested that reducing the size of the cabinet or ministers could help calm nerves and demonstrate a commitment to accountability. He emphasized that it’s never too late for the President to make changes and do the right thing, urging those with the President’s ear to advise him accordingly.

Meanwhile, General Secretary of the Opposition NDC Fifi Kwetey has called for a national introspection on the fight against corruption, highlighting that corruption in Ghana runs deeper than the political elite. Kwetey argued that corruption is a societal problem that requires a fundamental shift in values and attitudes, rather than just focusing on political leaders.

He cited the example of former President Jerry Rawlings, who executed three heads of state in an attempt to address corruption, but noted that the problem persisted due to its entrenched nature in society. Kwetey emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing corruption, one that involves a collective effort to change societal attitudes and values.