ORAL’s Bold Fight Against Corruption: What It Means for Ghana
On February 10, 2025, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, presented an extensive report to President John Dramani Mahama. This report detailed how ORAL has taken major steps toward recovering looted state assets and preventing corruption within Ghana’s public sector.
Established on December 18, 2024, as part of President Mahama’s 120-day social contract agenda, ORAL was created to bring transparency, accountability, and a renewed sense of responsibility in managing public resources. Since its inception, the initiative has achieved impressive results.
ORAL’s Key Achievements So Far
1. Stopping the Demolition of Government Bungalows
The committee halted the planned destruction of 50 government-owned bungalows, ensuring that these state properties remained intact for future use.
2. Protecting Northern Development Authority Lands
ORAL blocked unauthorized takeovers of Northern Development Authority lands, preventing their misuse and preserving them for public projects.
3. Preventing Illegal Modification of State Vehicles
Unauthorized modifications to state vehicle number plates were a major loophole in asset mismanagement. ORAL swiftly intervened to stop these illegal alterations and ensure proper record-keeping.
4. Securing Agricultural Lands in Cantonments
ORAL successfully protected agricultural lands in Cantonments, ensuring they remain dedicated to farming and food production instead of being unlawfully privatized.
5. Resolving the Du Bois Centre Dispute
The committee played a key role in mediating and settling conflicts surrounding the Du Bois Centre, preserving its cultural and historical importance.
6. Preventing Unauthorized Takeovers of State Assets
The initiative blocked several unlawful attempts to seize government-owned properties, ensuring these assets remain in the state’s control.
7. Stopping the Demolition of Museum Staff Quarters
ORAL successfully prevented the demolition of staff quarters at Ghana Museums, ensuring employees maintain their accommodations.
8. Launching a Whistleblower Platform
To encourage citizen involvement in fighting corruption, ORAL established a secure whistleblower platform where people can report instances of asset misappropriation.
9. Encouraging Voluntary Asset Returns
One of ORAL’s biggest successes has been motivating individuals to return misappropriated assets voluntarily, proving that accountability measures are working.
10. Securing International Forensic Support
The initiative has gained international forensic assistance to track funds hidden in offshore accounts, strengthening Ghana’s financial transparency and recovery efforts.
Why ORAL’s Work Matters for Ghana’s Future
Chairman Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa emphasized that ORAL’s work has been crucial in deepening transparency and accountability within Ghana’s governance system. He highlighted that the initiative has helped safeguard public assets and made government officials more conscious of their responsibilities.
“We have made significant strides in preventing the unlawful sale and destruction of state assets. This initiative marks a new era of accountability,” said Mr. Ablakwa.
As Ghana moves forward, the achievements of the ORAL initiative serve as a powerful testament to the country’s commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring good governance.
What’s Next for ORAL?
While ORAL has made substantial progress, its journey is far from over. The committee is pushing for even tighter regulations, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and continued public participation to maintain the momentum of asset recovery and anti-corruption efforts.
What do you think about ORAL’s achievements so far? Should similar initiatives be launched in other sectors? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
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