PRESIDENT John Dramani Mahama has directed all government appointees to declare their assets by March 31, 2025, warning that those who fail to comply may face severe consequences, including removal from office.
The directive follows Mahama’s own asset declaration, which he submitted to the Audit Service on Tuesday, in accordance with Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution and the Public Office Holders (Declaration of Assets and Disqualification) Act, 1998. Auditor General Johnson Akuamoah received the written declaration, which details Mahama’s property and financial assets.
‘I have taken this step publicly to promote openness and transparency in the asset declaration process,’ Mahama stated. ‘For too long, this process has been conducted in secrecy, making it difficult to measure compliance.’
A key step in anti-corruption efforts
Mahama emphasised that while punishing corruption is essential, preventing it is even more critical. He believes proper enforcement of asset declarations can serve as a powerful tool to curb corruption and promote accountability in public service.
‘Corruption thrives in secrecy, and the more transparency we introduce, the better we can fight it,’ he said.
To reinforce this stance, Mahama instructed the Chief of Staff to ensure that all appointees declare their assets before the deadline. He warned that any failure to comply would result in serious sanctions, including dismissal from office.
‘As we hold past government officials accountable, it is even more important to enforce anti-corruption measures among those currently in office,’ Mahama stated. ‘Public resources must be used solely in the interest of the Ghanaian people.’
Calls for stronger asset declaration reforms
Mahama also highlighted concerns about the effectiveness of the current asset declaration framework, calling for reforms to increase transparency. He suggested that declared assets should be made publicly available both before and after holding public office, ensuring greater oversight and accountability.
‘We must take advantage of the ongoing constitutional review process to improve the asset declaration system,’ he said. ‘A process where declarations remain concealed does not inspire public confidence. Open disclosure can help prevent unexplained wealth accumulation and strengthen the fight against corruption.’
Ensuring public oversight
Legal experts have weighed in on the issue, stating that while asset declarations are meant to promote accountability, they remain inaccessible to the public unless a formal petition is filed with the Auditor General.
‘A citizen can petition the Auditor General if they suspect an appointee has unlawfully acquired assets,’ explained legal analyst Christian Malm Hesse. ‘However, without open access to these declarations, detecting corruption becomes difficult,’ he told Accra’s JoyFM radio.
With the March 31 deadline fast approaching, Mahama’s directive marks a significant step toward greater transparency and accountability in Ghana’s governance. His call for stronger enforcement and public disclosure could also spark discussions on reforming asset declaration laws to ensure that public officials are held to the highest ethical standards.
