- Public Accounts Committee Chairman James Klutse Avedzi denies bribery allegations.
- Investigative journalist Manasseh Awuni Azure's book reignites claims of corruption.
- Parliament failed to transmit referrals to the Attorney General since 2017.
- Avedzi calls for transparency and accountability within the Committee and Parliament.
The Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament, James Klutse Avedzi, has categorically denied allegations of bribery and corruption leveled against the Committee. The allegations have been a longstanding issue, with claims of favoritism and corruption lingering in the background.
Recently, investigative journalist Manasseh Awuni Azure reignited the debate with claims in his book “The President Ghana Never Got”. According to Azure, some Parliamentarians have confirmed that officials appearing before the Committee pay members to expedite their cases and receive lenient treatment.
Addressing the concerns in Parliament on Tuesday, August 20, Avedzi vehemently denied the allegations. He emphasized his commitment to fairness and transparency, stating that he does not accept bribes to show leniency to individuals appearing before the Committee.
Avedzi acknowledged that other members may be involved in such practices, but he personally does not engage in bribery. He attributed the allegations to the Committee’s public nature, stating that people will always make accusations against public organizations.
The Chairman’s response comes amidst growing concerns about the Committee’s effectiveness in holding public officials accountable for infractions highlighted in the Auditor General’s report. Avedzi revealed a significant challenge in the Committee’s efforts to prosecute offenders, citing Parliament’s failure to transmit referrals to the Attorney General since 2017.
He disclosed that the Attorney General had appeared before the Committee, stating that no referrals had been communicated to his office. Avedzi took initiative to follow up on the matter, ensuring that the Clerk of Parliament communicated the referrals to the Attorney General’s Office. This revelation raises questions about the Committee’s ability to effectively address corruption and hold public officials accountable.
Avedzi’s denial and explanation highlight the need for transparency and accountability within the Committee and Parliament as a whole. The Public Accounts Committee plays a crucial role in ensuring public accountability, and any allegations of bribery and corruption must be thoroughly investigated to maintain public trust.
