Engagement with Professional Bodies

24 July 2024

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Introduction

The 6th conference of the Chartered Institute of Administrators and Management Consultants (CIAMC) in Accra saw the Office of the Special Prosecutor make a noteworthy impact with its insightful presentation and engaging discussions on the need for collective action in the fight against corruption. Under the theme “Building a Path towards a Fair and Sustainable Corruption-Free Ghana”, Director for Strategy, Research, and Communications, Mr Samuel Appiah Darko, delivered a keynote address on behalf of Special Prosecutor Mr Kissi Agyebeng, highlighting the importance of redefining corruption and closing loopholes in existing laws.

Overview

The Conference, held on 24 July 2024, drew a diverse audience middle to senior civil servants of nearly one thousand (1,000) across the country.

Key Takeaways from the Conference

• Redefining Corruption: Current laws, including the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act and the Criminal Offences Act, only describe corruption without providing a clear definition.

• Electoral Corruption: The culture of ‘it's our turn to eat’ is a major obstacle to achieving an integrous society, and the OSP is poised to address this issue ahead of the December general elections.

• Youth Empowerment: The OSP's Youth Against Corruption (YAC) programme is a citizen-centric initiative that aims to empower young people aged between 18 and 40 to take ownership of the fight against corruption.

• Amendment of Anti-Corruption Laws: The OSP called for the amendment of anti-corruption laws to include "the burden of proof."

• Collective Action: Mr Appiah Darko stressed the need for collective action, accenting that investigative and prosecutorial mandates are not just legal, but moral imperatives towards a sustainable, corruption-free society.

Notable Speakers and Hosts

Other notable speakers included Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, Executive Director, of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office and Dr Anthony Yaw Baah, General Secretary to the Trades Union Congress. The conference was chaired by Professor Victor Kwame Agyeman, Chairman of the Public Services Commission, and hosted by Ehunuabobrim Prah Agyensaim VI, Board Chairman of the CIAMC.