President-elect John Dramani Mahama has announced a five-member team to spearhead the preparatory phase of his ambitious anti-corruption initiative, "Operation Recover All Loot" (ORAL). This program, a cornerstone of Mahama's campaign and his 120-day social contract agenda, aims to combat corruption, recover misappropriated state funds, and strengthen accountability within Ghana's public sector.
ORAL is envisioned as a comprehensive strategy to address systemic corruption and financial impropriety. By prioritizing the recovery of looted resources, the initiative seeks to bolster governance, rebuild public trust in state institutions, and create fiscal space for national development. The initiative's significance lies in its direct response to widespread concerns regarding financial mismanagement within the public sector.
A circular from the Office of the President-elect, dated December 18th, officially introduced the five-member team tasked with leading this crucial initiative. The team comprises:
1. Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa – Chairman: A Member of Parliament known for his vocal advocacy against corruption.
2. Mr. Daniel Domelevo – Former Auditor-General: A highly respected figure renowned for his unwavering stance against financial malfeasance during his tenure as Auditor-General.
3. COP (Rtd.) Nathaniel Kofi Boakye: A retired Commissioner of Police bringing extensive experience in law enforcement and investigations to the team.
4. Mr. Martin Kpebu – Private Legal Practitioner: A prominent lawyer with a strong track record in advocating for accountability and transparency.
5. Mr. Raymond Archer – Investigative Journalist: A seasoned investigative journalist known for uncovering corruption within various sectors.
The concept of ORAL first gained traction on September 4th, 2024, when NDC-affiliated groups staged a demonstration at the Ministry of Finance, protesting what they termed "gross financial mismanagement" under the outgoing Akufo-Addo administration. This protest, attended by civil society organizations, students, and concerned citizens, highlighted the urgency for robust anti-corruption measures.
The formation of this high-profile team signals President-elect Mahama's commitment to tackling corruption head-on. The diverse expertise within the team—combining legal, investigative, and public service experience—suggests a multi-pronged approach to recovering looted funds and holding perpetrators accountable.
The success of ORAL will depend on the team's ability to effectively gather information, conduct thorough investigations, and ensure that those responsible for corruption face the full force of the law. The public will be watching closely as this initiative unfolds.
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