Reform existing asset declaration system – Executive Secretary of GACC

Executive Secretary for Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), Madam Beatrice Emefa Narteh, has called for robust reforms in Ghana’s asset declaration system, citing weaknesses in the existing framework.

Speaking on Akoma FM on January 23, she emphasized that while Article 286 of the Constitution and Parliamentary Act 550 mandate public officials to declare their assets and liabilities after assuming office, the current law falls short of ensuring transparency and accountability.

She made the observation during an interview with John Marfo on the Ghana Akoma show.

According to Madam Emefa, the system lacks critical verification mechanisms to confirm the accuracy of declared assets, rendering the process ineffective.

“Declaring assets is not enough. It would be better if our president opts for evidence of declaration, along with a monitoring system, to prevent a repeat of the financial misconduct we’ve seen in past governments,” she stated.

She contended that in the absence of adequate scrutiny, the asset declaration law could be used in ways that negate its mission of limiting bribery.

“We need a new law that not only ensures declarations are made but also checks breaches. Making known the number of asset declarations per institution could also help build public confidence in the system,” she added.

Madam Emefa holds a view that the existing framework unintentionally enables public officials to target riches for themselves rather than service to the nation.

Based on her action-orientated speech, it is clear that there is an immediate need for an enforced asset declaration system to improve accountability in the management of public resources and restore confidence in governance.

This debate has revitalized discussions on how to strengthen anti-corruption efforts in Ghana, with many advocates for reforms that enhance the verification and subsequent monitoring to protect the sanctity of a public office.

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