A News desk reports
In a powerful address that resonates with the growing concerns of Ghanaians, Mr. King Amoah, the Editor and Managing Director of the prominent news website, Connectghananews.com, has called upon the newly elected President, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, to impose a travel ban on all ministers and officials who served under former President Nana Akufo-Addo.
This appeal is framed as a necessary measure to ensure that these public figures are thoroughly investigated for corruption before they are permitted to leave the country.
The context of this demand comes from what Mr. Amoah has characterized as a “despotic and irresponsible regime” under Akufo-Addo, which he believes has been marred by rampant corruption and a blatant disregard for accountability.
Speaking at a public lecture focused on the policies of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) aimed at reviving the nation, Amoah expressed deep unease about the state of the country’s governance and the urgent need for justice.
A Reckoning for Corruption
“Corruption has reached staggering heights under Akufo-Addo’s administration,” Mr. Amoah stated, underscoring the significant impact that these corrupt practices have had on Ghana’s socio-economic fabric.
He emphasized that those who were entrusted with public office during this period must face the consequences of their actions. The need to prosecute and investigate these individuals, he argues, is not only a matter of restoring integrity to governance but also crucial for reclaiming misappropriated funds for national development.
The seasoned journalist highlighted that, despite his persistent attempts to bring attention to various corruption cases through his writing, the former government often responded with hostility rather than cooperation. Instead of launching investigations into these serious allegations, they attempted to discredit him, branding him a sensationalist.
This, he argues, showcases a troubling trend within the regime that prioritizes protecting its image over accountability.
The Media Landscape Under Akufo-Addo
Amoah’s remarks extend beyond governance; he also delved into the troubling relationship between the state and the media during Akufo-Addo’s tenure. He claims that while the administration publicly positions itself as media-friendly, it has fostered an environment hostile to dissent, especially against media outlets critical of its policies.
He pointed out the systematic gagging of pro-NDC media houses, which have faced backlash for their constructive criticisms, a trend that undermines democratic discourse.
“It’s clear that under Akufo-Addo, the media landscape has been polarized,” he noted, emphasizing that pro-NPP media entities have been favored while those that criticize the government face retribution. This biased treatment not only stifles journalistic integrity but also deprives the public of a comprehensive view of national issues, particularly corruption.
A Crucial Moment for Change
As Ghanaians now have a new leader and reflect on the performance of the previous administration, the sentiment is clear: the Akufo-Addo regime is widely considered one of the worst in the nation’s history, marked by corruption and hardship.
Mr. Amoah stresses that allowing former officials to escape scrutiny and enjoy the fruits of their alleged misdeeds would be a disservice to the populace and a direct affront to the rule of law.
In his impassioned appeal, he calls on President Mahama to ensure that no official from the previous regime is allowed to flee without first being held accountable. “We cannot let those who have betrayed the trust of the people go scot-free while the nation suffers from the consequences of their actions,” he asserted.
Amoah’s words resonate as a clarion call for transparency, integrity, and justice within Ghana’s political system. As the nation stands at a crossroads, the demand for accountability from public officials is not just a political necessity but a moral imperative that seeks to rebuild trust in governance and ensure a brighter future for all Ghanaians.
