Photo by The Corruption Pendulum Swings Both Ways: Where Does the Real Blame Lie?
In recent times, Ghana has witnessed a plethora of corruption scandals that have left the country reeling. One of the most high-profile cases being the Airbus Scandal, where former President John Mahama was named as “Government Official One”. However, in a surprising turn of events, the Office of the Special Prosecutor has cleared the former president of any wrongdoing.
What does this say about the state of corruption in Ghana? Is it a case of corruption being propagated from the top-down, or is there something more sinister at play? We will attempt to tackle these questions, and find out where the true blame lies.
= Corruption Runs Deep =
It would be naive to assume that the corruption in Ghana begins and ends with politicians. No, the truth is far more deeply ingrained. Corruption has become an integral part of the fabric of Ghanaian society. From low-level corruption where the police extort money from drivers at checkpoints, to high-level corruption where senior officials siphon millions of dollars from state coffers, the entire system is rotten to its core.
We needlook no further than the recent scandal involving the Japanese pharmaceutical company, Kobayashi Pharma, to see the extent of this rot. Thousands of people were affected by their rogue products, and hundreds died. Yet, no one has been held accountable. What does this say about the priority placed on human life in Ghana?
On the surface, it would appear that corruption is propagated from the top-down. After all, it is those in positions of power who are able to amass vast fortunes through corrupt practices. But does the blame stop there? Or do we need to examine the societal norms that make corruption so acceptable?
From the business leaders who turn a blind eye to corporate corruption to the individual who pays a bribe to ensure their child passes an examination, corruption in Ghana has become a tacitly accepted norm. Thus, while it would be straightforward to assert that the leaders of the country perpetuate corruption and have benefited as individuals, they operate in societies that subtly approve or condone these corrupt norms.
However, we need to examine the societal factors that make corruption so pervasive. It is no secret that the poverty rate in Ghana is high. In such a scenario, it is not hard to see why someone might be tempted to engage in corrupt practices in order to provide for their family.
= Let’s Hold The Politicians to Account =
It is also important to note that leaders are ultimately accountable for the policies implemented under their tenure. So, it is reasonable that when analysing how corruption affects Ghana, the concentration stays on the contributions of past heads of states.
It remains to be seen how the scandal will unfold and how the relationship between those who have ruled the country in recent years will end. Past activities involving corruption remain unclear.
Another Japanese giant, Honda, is pulling out, according to reports. That’s the reality of where Ghana is at the moment.
Whatever the circumstances that made Honda take such a decision, another foreign company departing Ghana doesn’t reflect very well on the current economic situation in the country.
Note: This image is a representation of corruption in Ghana. The content of the actual image will only be loosely based on the keywords.
In conclusion, corruption remains a menace in Ghana and affects all parts of society. As a country, it is imperative to reflect on where we want to go. Do we continue down the path of corruption, or do we take a new path, one where integrity is not a dirty word?
Sources:
[1] Airbus Scandal: Mahama named as ‘Government Official One’
[2] Airbus Scandal: OSP clears Mahama, former president’s brother, others
