Charlotte Osei calls for amendment to Asset Declaration regime

Charlotte Osei, former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), wants changes to Ghana’s asset declaration rules.

Her call follows a report from the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana). This report highlights concerning costs associated with winning elections in Ghana.

The findings raise serious worries about democracy and corruption in the country.

According to the report, winning presidential and parliamentary elections now costs about $150 million. Additionally, candidates need GHS 10 million.

This high cost is linked to increasing monetization in elections. The report warns that this trend promotes corruption and reduces accountability in public office.

At an event, Charlotte Osei emphasized the need for reviewing asset declaration rules. She is also a member of the Constitutional Review Committee.

Osei called asset declaration "a critical key for fighting corruption." She noted that even general managers of state-owned entities should follow these rules.

However, she questioned whether this requirement is being enforced properly. Osei believes reforms are essential to improve transparency and public trust.

She suggested that a strict verification system upon taking office could help combat corruption effectively.