Kissi Agyebeng, Ghana’s Special Prosecutor, accepted his role with significant reluctance. He emphasizes that he neither sought nor lobbied for the position, portraying it as a responsibility thrust upon him. This acceptance entailed substantial personal sacrifices, requiring a drastic shift in his lifestyle. Previously, he enjoyed a more carefree existence, engaging in outdoor pursuits and reveling in personal freedoms. However, the demanding nature of his current role has curtailed these activities, representing a significant personal cost in his service to the nation. Despite these sacrifices, he perceives a disheartening disconnect between his commitment and the public’s willingness to engage in the fight against corruption.
Agyebeng observes a paradox: while Ghanaians express a desire for corruption to be eradicated, their actions often contradict this sentiment. He points to the consistent pushback and attacks he faces as evidence of this disconnect. These attacks, ranging from verbal assaults to actual threats on his life, illustrate the perilous nature of his role and highlight the risks he undertakes in pursuing his mandate. This constant barrage of opposition creates a sense of vulnerability, requiring heightened security measures not only for himself but also for the operational officers within his office. The Special Prosecutor’s work generates new adversaries daily, exposing him to the darker aspects of human behavior.
The challenging nature of Agyebeng’s role is further underscored by the thankless nature of the work. The constant opposition and hostility he faces create an environment where appreciation for his efforts is scarce. He describes it as a lonely battle, fraught with antagonism and personal attacks, raising questions about the public’s true commitment to combating corruption. The relentless pushback and lack of support create a sense of isolation, casting doubt on the collective will to address this pervasive issue.
Despite these formidable challenges, Agyebeng remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice. He sees a glimmer of hope in the ongoing constitutional review process, advocating for the inclusion of the Office of the Special Prosecutor within the constitution itself. This, he believes, would bolster the office’s independence, shielding it from political manipulation and ensuring its longevity beyond the tenure of any individual prosecutor. He emphasizes the importance of institutionalizing the fight against corruption, stressing that the focus should be on building robust structures that can withstand the tests of time and changing political landscapes.
To strengthen the fight against corruption, Agyebeng proposes a multi-pronged approach. He suggests integrating anti-corruption studies into school curricula, starting from a young age, to instill a culture of ethical conduct and accountability. Furthermore, he advocates for the establishment of specialized anti-corruption courts, dedicated to handling corruption cases efficiently and effectively. This, he argues, would send a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated and would provide a robust legal framework for prosecuting offenders.
Agyebeng’s vision extends beyond his own tenure, emphasizing the need for systemic change. By embedding anti-corruption measures within the constitution, educational systems, and the judiciary, he envisions creating a society where corruption is not just condemned but actively and effectively combated. He appeals to the public to move beyond mere rhetoric and actively support the fight against corruption, recognizing that eradicating this societal ill requires collective effort and a genuine commitment to change. His message is a call to action, urging Ghanaians to embrace the shared responsibility of building a more just and transparent society.
