Calls grow to strengthen Ghana's Special Prosecutor to tackle corruption
Calls are mounting to expand the powers of Ghana's anti-graft agency amid persistent concerns over corruption. A new survey shows the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) commands more public trust than any other accountability institution in the country. Participants at a regional dialogue in Tamale urged that the OSP be strengthened and empowered to investigate cases, prosecute offenders, and recover stolen assets more effectively.
The forum was convened by the Ghana Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) in collaboration with the OSP. The online survey of 412 Ghanaians found that 55.2 per cent expressed confidence in the OSP's ability to fight corruption independently. Bright Sowu, an OSP official, told participants that the office has prevented the loss of 7.18 billion cedis, about $600 million, since its establishment. 33 people are currently on trial, 35.14 million cedis has been recovered, and 7 transactions have been suspended. The office has also secured convictions and reached more than 13,000 people through public education initiatives. Justice Awen-Natey Atiim of RAINS Ghana said, "The country still needs the OSP."
Key recommendations from the survey include anchoring the OSP firmly in the Constitution, guaranteeing financial autonomy, strengthening prosecutorial powers, and introducing unexplained wealth orders. It also calls for the establishment of an independent Anti-Corruption and Ethics Commission, alongside increased capacity building for the OSP.
Quick Summary
A recent forum in Tamale discussed strengthening Ghana's Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) amid ongoing corruption concerns. The dialogue explored ways to empower the OSP to more effectively combat corruption - but what changes are needed?
Summary - read the full story for complete context.
Image: MyJoyOnline
GhanaFront aggregates news from trusted sources. Click to read the original article.
Keywords
Explore related tagsMore from MyJoyOnline
Related Stories
More from Politics
Court throws out prosecution witness statements in Buffer Stock trial
A key legal challenge has emerged in the Buffer Stock trial- but what does it mean for the case?
5h ago•2 min read
Electronic Communications Act not meant to regulate journalists' conduct - Inusah Fuseini
Is the Electronic Communications Act being misused to target journalists? Fuseini weighs in on the growing debate.
5h ago•2 min read
Wa High Court upholds jail term for wedding MC convicted of defilement
A popular wedding MC's legal battle unfolds in Wa High Court - but what does it mean for justice in the region?
7h ago•2 min read
Irish government announces further fuel support after protests
After nationwide protests, the Irish government is promising fuel support - but will it be enough?
11h ago•3 min read
