Accra: Executive Director of Transparency International Ghana, Mary Addah, has pushed back against recent calls to dissolve the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), questioning what alternative measures would be effective in combating corruption in Ghana.
According to Ghana Web, Addah emphasized during an appearance on PM Express that public trust in the OSP signifies its role as the most effective anti-corruption body in the country. She addressed concerns regarding the office's non-constitutional status, arguing that while the OSP isn't enshrined in the constitution, its removal would leave a significant gap in the fight against corruption.
Addah highlighted the OSP's exclusive focus on corruption and related offences, including procurement breaches, underscoring its unique position as the sole institution dedicated to these issues. She asserted that the existence and function of the OSP are critical to maintaining public confidence and fighting corruption effectively.
She further explained that public support for the OSP has been consistent since its inception, driven by citizens' desire for a robust anti-corruption framework. Addah noted that trust in the OSP often increases when Ghanaians perceive it as being under threat, as demonstrated by survey findings from corruption barometers and Afrobarometer studies.
While advocating for the OSP's continued operation, Addah acknowledged that public support is not without conditions, stating that citizens consistently call for system improvements. She pointed to a rising trend of citizen empowerment in Ghana, with more individuals willing to speak out against corruption and demand accountability from institutions.