Franklin Cudjoe, President of IMANI Africa, has called for a more focused approach to tackling corruption, asserting that efforts must start from the highest levels of government. According to Cudjoe, the Presidency is the central hub where corrupt deals are orchestrated.
In an interview on Citi FM, Cudjoe stressed the importance of addressing corruption at its source. He criticized the establishment of the Office of the Special Prosecutor, arguing that it is a reactive measure that addresses corruption only after it has become entrenched. Cudjoe highlighted specific instances of corruption originating from within the Presidency, including scandals involving the Scholarship Secretariat and the Ministry of Special Initiatives.
“Charity begins at home, and so fighting corruption should start at the Presidency because that is where all the crooked things are cooked,” Cudjoe stated. “Look at the Scholarship Secretariat scandal; is it not from there? This Ministry of Special Initiatives was not harbored at the Presidency, which led to all these dams that were constructed like dugouts and wasted money all over the place. Just take a cursory look at that office.”
Cudjoe emphasized that the creation of the Office of the Special Prosecutor was akin to “battling after the facts were established.” He argued that individuals implicated in corruption often have the financial means to resist prosecution effectively.
IMANI Africa advocates for a proactive stance in combating corruption and wasteful spending. Cudjoe believes that true reform must begin within the Presidency itself. By prioritizing accountability and transparency at the highest levels of government, he asserts that Ghana can effectively combat corruption and foster a culture of integrity and good governance.