Alban Bagbin stresses need for all to join force in tackling corruption


The MP for Nadowli-Kaleo, Alban Bagbin says the act of seeing corruption as a phenomenon that pertains only in the circles of politicians is a major hurdle in the fight against the scourge in the country. 

He has therefore stressed the need for us all to join force in tackling corruption which is multi-dimensional and is pervasive in Ghana. 

Mr. Bagbin made the call during a public lecture at the Wa Campus of the University for Development Studies (UDS).

Radio Ghana’s Correspondent, Emmanuel Mensah-Abludo reports that the Research and Publications Committee of the Faculty of Integrated Development Studies of UDS Chaired by Dr Damasus Tuurosong was instrumental in organizing the maiden public lecture. 

The event which was well attended by students also saw a number of senior members of the faculty gracing it. 

Mr. Bagbin whose paper was titled “Corruption and National Development” indicated that since 1999, Ghana has been part of a global campaign to fight corruption. 

The MP for Nadowli-Kaleo said “the politicization of corruption and corruption of politics” is thwarting the country’s efforts in dealing with criminals and corrupt officials because they hide under the banner of politics or political colours to avoid prosecution. 

Mr Bagbin who declared at the lecture that he was not speaking on behalf of Parliament or for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), regretted that some communities are now glorifying stealing. 

He pointed out that “we cannot be silent in fighting corruption but anger and revulsion against the menace is the key” to stemming practice. 

The Nadowli-Kaleo MP shared the views espoused by some personalities on corruption including of that of Roberto Casellas of Mexico and former President J.A. Kufuor and said corruption takes toll on the ability of the government to function effectively. 
Provision of poor quality services, weakening of institutions and loss of lives were mentioned as some of the effects of corrupt practices.   

Mr Bagbin reiterated the need for de-coupling of the position of Attorney-General and the Minister of Justice and was of the view that declaration of assets by some public office holders should be made public. 

The Dean in charge of the Wa Campus of UDS, Dr. Daniel Bagah who presided at the function advised students not to cheat “the system” to get first class whilst in school else they would be found out on the job market. 

Dr. Bagah who is also the Dean of Business and Law observed that there is a consensus that corruption impedes development and that we should all wage a war against it.


GBC