In an illuminating interview on JoyNews AM, former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo discussed the stark realities of fighting corruption, following a provocative petition against current Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng. Initiated by President Akufo-Addo and propelled by Martin Amidu, Domelevo’s predecessor, this petition highlights the severe backlash faced by anti-corruption crusaders from entrenched systemic obstacles.
The petition details allegations of procurement violations and broader misconduct within the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). Authored by Amidu, it was submitted to the President on April 30, 2024, and subsequently forwarded to Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo on May 6. Amidu’s charges span from procedural lapses in vehicle purchases to wider judicial and administrative abuses, painting a vivid picture of the deep-rooted challenges that pervade Ghana’s power structures.
Domelevo’s comments shed light on the opaque dynamics at play, suggesting that corruption counters by masquerading as righteous indignation. “Corruption doesn’t just fight; it fights smart, cloaking its real motives with seemingly legitimate grievances,” Domelevo explained, adding that often there’s a deeper story, an unseen layer of intrigue and internal power struggles.
Moreover, Domelevo expressed personal dismay over Amidu’s role in the saga. Amidu, once an ally in governance reform, has taken a path Domelevo finds puzzling, given their shared history and his understanding of Amidu’s values. This action against Agyebeng, who succeeded Amidu, hints at possible envy or rivalry, as some speculate that Agyebeng’s competent tenure might be seen as overshadowing his predecessor’s.
The case also highlights a selective application of justice, particularly concerning procurement laws. Domelevo criticized the inconsistency with which these laws are wielded, often weaponized against perceived adversaries while overlooking similar transgressions within higher echelons of power, including the presidency and the Electoral Commission.
“These procurement laws are selectively activated, deployed as tools of convenience rather than instruments of justice,” Domelevo remarked, pointing out the discrepancy in how similar allegations are handled depending on the individual’s standing or favor with current power structures.
This narrative isn’t just about individual grievances or administrative disputes; it’s emblematic of broader systemic issues within Ghanaian governance. The selective enforcement of laws and the weaponization of legal frameworks against inconvenient officials underscore a challenging road ahead for transparency and accountability.
As the nation grapples with these issues, the voices of former officials like Domelevo are pivotal in highlighting the need for a more equitable application of the law and for supporting those who stand against corruption. Their experiences and insights are crucial in molding a governance framework that not only prosecutes corruption uniformly but also protects those who dare to challenge the status quo.
In conclusion, the unfolding drama around the petition against the Special Prosecutor isn’t just a legal battle; it’s a reflection of the enduring struggle between reformative forces and entrenched corruption in Ghana. It underscores the necessity for continued vigilance and systemic reform to ensure that efforts to clean up governance are not undermined by those who stand to lose from such changes. As Ghana continues to navigate these tumultuous waters, the international community, policymakers, and the Ghanaian populace will be watching closely, hopeful for a resolution that strengthens rather than weakens the pillars of justice and accountability in the country.
Source: My Joy Online
