In a significant effort to address one of Ghana’s most persistent issues—corruption—the CEO of FreeMinds Communication Limited, Mrs. Comfort Aniagyei, has formally submitted a proposal to the Constitutional Review Committee, advocating for the amendment of Article 88(5) of the 1992 Constitution.
During her appearance on NkÉ”soÉ”nsÉ›m, a current affairs program on Plan B FM hosted by Odiamono Kwaku Gyimah, Mrs. Aniagyei expressed her concerns candidly. She highlighted the substantial financial losses incurred as a result of corruption, a persistent issue noted in the Auditor-General’s reports and various public sector audits.
“Ghana requires adequate funding for its administration,” she stated. “However, a considerable portion of state revenue is squandered due to embezzlement and corruption. This amendment will assist in eradicating corruption and its associated challenges.”
A System That Protects Rather Than Punishes the Corrupt
Mrs. Aniagyei strongly criticized the current enforcement mechanisms, particularly the role of the Attorney General. She raised concerns about the independence and determination of successive Attorneys General in recovering misappropriated funds, pointing out systemic deficiencies that hinder anti-corruption initiatives.
“Successive Attorneys General have consistently made inadequate attempts to recover stolen funds,” she remarked.
She further elaborated on how power dynamics and political affiliations obstruct justice:
The Attorney General often holds concurrent positions as a colleague minister or Member of Parliament to the accused officials.
Traditional authorities and religious leaders may intervene to protect suspects.
In some cases, the President may subtly influence the Attorney General to discontinue prosecutions.
Revising the Framework: Her Vision for Article 88(5)
Presently, Article 88(5) consolidates prosecutorial power within the Attorney General’s office. Mrs. Aniagyei’s proposal aims to decentralize this authority, allowing citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs) to directly pursue cases of corruption and financial recovery.
Her reform recommendations include:
Empowering private citizens and CSOs to initiate legal action to recover misappropriated public funds.
Waiving court fees and charges to encourage participation.
Ensuring access to Legal Aid for these initiatives.
Providing compensation of 20–30% of recovered funds to claimants, modeled on the incentives established by the existing Whistleblower Act.
“We believe this amendment will enhance citizen engagement in governance and empower the populace,” Mrs. Aniagyei stated.
Awaiting Response, Yet Remaining Resolute
Although FreeMinds Communication Limited has received acknowledgment of the proposal submission from the Constitutional Review Committee both electronically and in person, there has been no further communication or feedback. Nevertheless, Mrs. Aniagyei maintains that the team remains optimistic and steadfast.
“We have yet to receive any follow-up response. However, we remain undeterred,” she affirmed.
Initiating a National Dialogue
Mrs. Aniagyei’s proposal has sparked a timely and essential discussion regarding the future of Ghana’s legal and governance structures. If implemented, the amendment could revolutionize the approach to combating corruption in Ghana—shifting the responsibility from closed political circles to the citizens themselves.
In a country where the hope for reform often diminishes, this initiative could serve as a guiding light toward enhanced transparency, accountability, and democratic resilience.
By: Longman | Planbfmonline.com