The OneGhana Movement, a prominent civic organization dedicated to promoting good governance and national development, and the UPSA Law School, a respected institution for legal education and research, are joining forces once again to host the fifth annual Constitution Day Public Lecture. This significant event, scheduled for February 28, 2025, at the Ridge Arena, Alisa Hotel in Accra, will delve into the critical issue of corruption and state capture, examining their debilitating effects on Ghana’s progress and exploring potential solutions for a more accountable and prosperous future. The lecture serves as a vital platform for national introspection, fostering dialogue on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting effective governance reforms.
The theme for this year’s lecture, “A Few Good Men: Suppressing and Repressing Corruption and State Capture in Aid of Development,” underscores the importance of individual integrity and collective action in combating these insidious threats to national development. Mr. Kissi Agyebeng, Ghana’s Special Prosecutor, entrusted with the crucial task of investigating and prosecuting corruption-related offenses, will deliver the keynote address. His expertise and insights are expected to shed light on the intricacies of corruption and state capture, providing a comprehensive analysis of their manifestations within Ghana’s governance landscape. Professor H. Kwesi Prempeh, Executive Director of the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), a leading voice in promoting democracy and good governance, will review and provide expert commentary on the lecture, offering a broader perspective on the challenges and potential solutions.
Corruption, the abuse of public office for private gain, and state capture, the undue influence of private interests over state institutions and decision-making processes, pose significant obstacles to Ghana’s development aspirations. They erode public trust, divert resources from essential public services, undermine the rule of law, and create an uneven playing field that stifles economic growth and perpetuates inequality. By focusing on these critical issues, the Constitution Day Public Lecture aims to stimulate a national conversation on effective strategies for combating corruption and state capture, strengthening institutional mechanisms for accountability, and fostering a culture of integrity in public life.
The lecture will provide a platform for Mr. Agyebeng to share his perspective on the challenges faced by the Special Prosecutor’s Office in its efforts to investigate and prosecute corruption cases, as well as to highlight the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and the media, in combating corruption and promoting good governance. Professor Prempeh’s review will offer an independent assessment of the issues raised, drawing upon his extensive experience in researching and advocating for democratic reforms and good governance practices in Ghana.
The choice of Mr. Agyebeng as the keynote speaker reflects the significance of the Special Prosecutor’s role in Ghana’s fight against corruption. His office is mandated to investigate and prosecute cases of corruption involving public officials, as well as individuals and organizations engaged in corrupt practices. By providing a platform for the Special Prosecutor to address the nation on this crucial issue, the lecture aims to raise public awareness about the importance of combating corruption and to encourage greater citizen engagement in holding public officials accountable.
To ensure wider accessibility and encourage broader participation in this crucial national dialogue, the lecture will be broadcast live on television, radio, and social media platforms, reaching a diverse audience across the country and beyond. This broad dissemination strategy reflects the organizers’ commitment to fostering a truly national conversation on the challenges of corruption and state capture, engaging citizens from all walks of life in the search for solutions. The involvement of the UPSA Law School, a respected institution of legal education, further enhances the credibility and intellectual rigor of the event, underscoring the importance of legal frameworks and institutional reforms in combating corruption and strengthening democratic governance. The OneGhana Movement’s commitment to promoting good governance and national development provides a broader platform for the discussion, connecting the issue of corruption to its broader impact on Ghana’s progress and future prospects. The event is expected to generate significant public interest and contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry, empowered to demand accountability and contribute to the fight against corruption.
