The Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement at CDD-Ghana, Kojo Asante, has reiterated calls for Ghana to reinforce its anti-corruption framework by giving constitutional backing to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
Speaking to journalists during the CDD National Dialogue on the OSP, Mr. Asante noted that the debate over whether Ghana needs an independent, specialized body to tackle corruption—especially cases involving politically exposed persons—has long been settled. He stressed that the priority now should be ensuring such institutions are adequately empowered, protected, and resourced to function effectively.
He pointed to recommendations from the constitutional review process, which propose consolidating existing anti-corruption bodies into a stronger, unified Anti-Corruption or Ethics Commission. According to him, Ghana already has the necessary institutional structures, and the key step forward is to provide them with firm constitutional grounding to guarantee independence and insulate them from political interference.
Mr. Asante emphasized the importance of tightening appointment and removal procedures to safeguard the autonomy of the OSP. He argued that the institution’s effectiveness must not hinge on the individual occupying the office, but rather on a system that ensures continuity, protection, and operational independence.
He further dismissed calls for the scrapping of the OSP on grounds of weak constitutional footing, insisting that such concerns can be addressed through the ongoing constitutional review process. Instead of advocating repeal, he urged stakeholders to focus on strengthening and formalizing the institution within the Constitution.
Drawing comparisons with other specialized agencies, Mr. Asante cited the Financial Intelligence Centre and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), which were established to handle complex financial and organized crimes without significant resistance. He questioned why similar objections persist regarding a dedicated anti-corruption body.
On the progress of constitutional reforms, Mr. Asante expressed concern about delays, noting that although the final report was submitted in January, little progress has been made as of the end of March. He cautioned that procedural requirements, including gazetting and nationwide consultations, could hinder timely implementation if action is not expedited.
He therefore called on the presidency to release the full constitutional review report to enable informed public discourse and urged authorities to outline a clear implementation timeline. While acknowledging indications that an implementation committee may soon be formed, he stressed the need for urgency to prevent missing the limited reform window ahead of upcoming political processes.
Mr. Asante concluded by underscoring the need for decisive action, warning that continued delays and institutional tensions risk undermining Ghana’s efforts to effectively combat corruption and ensure accountability.
Story by: Ernest Frimpong (0247220948) | Follow our social media handles @uktvghana | DM us for Ads on our website or any of our socials
