Bagbin urges unified front against corruption at accountability institutions meeting
By Eugene Davis
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin has called on Ghana’s key accountability institutions (KAIs) to deepen collaboration and freely share information to enable a more coordinated and effective response to corruption, misconduct, systemic weaknesses, and governance failures.
Speaking at an engagement with the KAIs at Parliament House, Speaker Bagbin noted:
“The accountability landscape in Ghana is ever-changing—not necessarily in its challenges, but in its opportunities for collective action. The more closely our institutions work together and share information, the more seamless our national response can become.”
The meeting, led by the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), marked the Speaker’s first personal participation since Parliament signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the KAIs in February 2024.
He praised the formation of the KAI Platform, describing it as a critical tool to reshape Ghana’s fight against corruption.
“No single institution can tackle corruption and crime alone. Collective action is key,” he stressed.
The Speaker also reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to the upcoming National Integrity Awards Scheme, officially announced in March. The scheme will recognize individuals and institutions demonstrating outstanding integrity and ethical leadership. It will also introduce a “Vulture Award” to name and shame those who exhibit poor public integrity.
“Parliament is not just a lawmaking body—it is a guardian of public interest,” he said. “We must celebrate our heroes of integrity as boldly as we condemn acts of corruption.”
To support the scheme, a National Integrity Awards Committee is being constituted to oversee nominations, selection, and long-term sustainability. The contributions of KAIs will be central to ensuring the scheme’s credibility and national relevance.
Highlighting internal reforms, the Speaker mentioned the establishment of a Law and Governance Division and an Anti-Corruption Unit within the Parliamentary Service—led by experienced legal professionals, including former CHRAJ personnel—to reinforce transparency and accountability within Parliament itself.
Speaker Bagbin concluded by reaffirming his personal and institutional commitment to the anti-corruption agenda, urging all stakeholders to share their insights and help build a national culture of integrity.
“This is not just a passion for me—it is a lifelong commitment,” he declared.
