News Letter: BudgIT Ghana praises OSP’s swift action on ex-Sanitation Minister; demands transparency, accountability on recovered funds.

Accra-Ghana, July 28, 2023

BudgIT Ghana, a leading civil society organization committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance, commends the swift action of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in taking up the case involving the alleged dishonest misappropriation of funds by two househelps of Hon. Cecelia Abena Dapaah, former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, and the alleged hoarding of foreign and local currencies in her private residence in Abelemkpe, Accra. The sum involved, totaling $1 million, 350,000 Euros, and GHC 350,000, has raised a severe public outcry.

BudgIT Ghana acknowledges and appreciates the Office of the Special Prosecutor for responding promptly to the public’s outcry and initiating an investigation into this matter. The speedy intervention demonstrates the OSP’s commitment to upholding the country’s justice and accountability principles. Such prompt action sets a positive precedent and reinforces public confidence in the country’s justice system.

Given the gravity of the charges against Hon. Cecelia Abena Dapaah, BudgIT Ghana emphasizes the significance of conducting an open and transparent investigation. We are adamant that transparency is the bedrock of good governance and the key to fostering public trust in our institutions. To that end, we urge the Office of the Special Prosecutor to provide the public with regular updates on the investigation’s progress.

While understanding the need to protect sensitive information during an ongoing inquiry, BudgIT Ghana emphasizes that sharing relevant updates within the bounds of the law will promote accountability and maintain public confidence in the investigation process. Citizens have a right to be informed about the case, as it involves public funds and a high- ranking public official.

Furthermore, we urge Hon. Cecelia Abena Dapaah to cooperate with the investigation and fully support the authorities. By doing so, she can demonstrate her commitment to transparency and the rule of law, which will help foster an environment where public officials are held accountable for their actions.

BudgIT Ghana believes that all public officials should be held to the highest ethical and integrity standards. We reiterate our commitment to fostering a society in which public officials are held accountable for their acts and the public can have confidence that their interests are protected.

Finally, BudgIT Ghana applauds the Office of the Special Prosecutor for reacting quickly to public outrage over the Cecelia Dapaah case. We urge the OSP to conduct an open and thorough investigation to respect the values of good governance, accountability, and justice. Through this process, we can rebuild and strengthen public faith in our institutions and achieve a more accountable government for Ghanaians.

Signed

Jennifer Moffatt, Communications Officer, BudgIT Ghana