Anti-corruption oversight missing in Mahama’s 8-point reset plan – Prof. Bokpin

Economist and finance professor Godfred Alufar Bokpin has raised concerns. He noted the lack of anti-corruption measures in President John Mahama's 8-point economic reset plan. This omission could harm Ghana's long-term recovery efforts.

During the president's inauguration, he mentioned four priority areas. One of these was fighting corruption. However, Bokpin pointed out that corruption is not sufficiently addressed in the agenda. He emphasized that transparency is crucial for sustainable growth.

Ghana ranks 72nd out of 180 countries on Transparency International's 2023 Corruption Perception Index. The country scored only 43 out of 100, which is below the sub-Saharan African average of 44.

Several scandals have affected Ghana recently. There was a loss of GHS12.5 billion due to procurement irregularities from 2020 to 2023. Civil Society Organisations like IMANI Africa reported that 37% of government contracts showed signs of over-invoicing.

The UNODC estimates that corruption costs Ghana $3 billion each year. A GSS survey in 2023 found that 72% of businesses cited graft as a major issue. According to Afrobarometer reports, only 9% of Ghanaians trust the government's anti-corruption efforts.

In response, Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem Nyarko defended the president’s policy framework. He stated it is robust and flexible enough to include issues like corruption.

Nyarko assured everyone that President Mahama’s eight points can expand to address corruption and other concerns. He emphasized past commitments to fighting corruption do not change with this omission.

He also mentioned that President Mahama’s stance on Public Financial Management signals a commitment to tackle corruption directly. Nyarko explained that PFM reflects their resolve against graft.

He acknowledged public expectations for comprehensive coverage but noted capturing every issue would lead to an overwhelming list. The key point is that these pillars can evolve based on citizens' concerns.

Nyarko reassured Professor Bokpin and others worried about financial management after exiting the IMF program. He stated they are determined not to return to the IMF for support.

President Mahama has consistently said this should be Ghana's last turn to the IMF. Nyarko concluded by expressing confidence in their ability to maintain discipline independently.