Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has boldly declared his stance against corruption, affirming that he will not shield appointees involved in corrupt activities if elected president in the upcoming December polls.
During an interaction with members of the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA), Mahama urged Ghanaians to demand accountability from leaders.
If he secures victory in the general elections, he pledged to establish an independent valuation office to ensure Ghana gets value for money when it comes to procurement.
Mr Mahama insisted that any of his appointees found guilty or suspected of corruption will face legal consequences, asserting his commitment to the national interest over personal allegiances.
The former President emphasised his determination to ensure accountability, stating his refusal to protect individuals from facing consequences for their actions.
“One of the reasons why you are suffering in terms of imposition of revenue and taxes is because of the expenditure side. Suppose the government is raising the money and misusing it through sole sourcing, procurement and so forth. In that case, it is your taxpayers’ money that is being wasted and so we must take an interest in that that is why I have suggested that we are going to have an independent valuation office and any sole sourcing contract must go for value-for-money audit to make sure that it has not been inflated.”
“Aside from that, we must make sure that we cut down on corruption and allow the anti-corruption institutions to work."
“If people have taken advantage of the country, they must be dealt with, and that is why I said when I come into the office and I am swearing in the ministers, I will caution them, and if they don’t listen and do not do their work well and EOCO or OSP come after you, I am not a clearing agent and I won’t interfere and I will let them do their work,” Mr Mahama said.
Credit: myjoyonline.com