The Greater Accra Regional Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Mary Nartey has admonished the citizenry not to leave the fight against corruption to only mandated institutions if progress is to be attained.
She explained that the canker would only be minimised or eradicated when the citizenry complemented efforts of institutions such as CHRAJ, National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), and Police Service by being crusaders against the phenomenon.
Mrs Nartey made the admonition when she addressed anti-corruption campaigners in Accra, organised by Musician Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), and sponsored by Star-Ghana Foundation to create awareness of the impact of corruption on the nation’s growth and development on the theme: ‘Let’s Fight Corruption Now’.
“We have been blessed with natural resources, when managed with honesty can create jobs for the youth to enhance the nation’s growth and development. There are many things retarding our growth and development which we need to put a stop to. Corruption is a major phenomenon; make use of the Whistle Blowers’ Act by reporting corrupt acts to appropriate agencies and institutions.
“Fighting corruption is not just about one person but responsibility of the citizenry of this country, therefore I will urge you to report financial misappropriation and any other corrupt act to us for investigation to ascertain truth and ensure justice takes cause. CHRAJ will ensure citizens who give information are protected under the Act,” Mrs Nartey pointed out.
Mercy Essien, the Deputy Director of NCCE, underscored the need for public involvement in the fight against the canker saying, “Sometimes we only demand rights forgetting rights come with responsibilities. We have to take responsibility in the fight to ensure corruption is brought to the barest minimum.
Bice Osei Kuffour, President of MUSIGA, bemoaned the impact the phenomenon was having on the country in terms of growth and development, and called for a united front in the fight against the canker so as to ensure that the fight was won.
“The fight against corruption is not for the NCCE alone, neither is it the job for CHRAJ or other civic society organisations but for each and every citizen of this country. When you and I decide to become ambassadors to speak against corruption, that is the only time we can see progress in our fight against the canker,” he stressed.
–GNA
