The Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC) has raised concerns that Serious and Organised Crimes (SOC) pose a significant threat to Ghana's democracy, with proceeds potentially used to finance political activities. At an engagement with community members in Kasseh Ada, various forms of SOC such as illegal mining, money laundering, drug trafficking, smuggling, and cyber fraud were identified as prevalent in the country.
Mrs. Beauty Emefa Narteh, the Executive Secretary of GACC, emphasized the need for awareness about SOC-related issues and their implications for Ghana's elections. She highlighted how organized criminal activities like galamsey and internet fraud have networks and links that could potentially finance politicians, compromising the integrity of the electoral process.
One key concern raised by Mrs Narteh was the lack of transparency in political party financing, citing weaknesses in the implementation of the Political Party Act (Act 2000). She stressed the importance of demanding transparency from politicians regarding their sources of income to ensure accountability and reduce the cost of politics.
She encouraged citizens to report acts of corruption to the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to facilitate prosecution, emphasizing the role of evidence in combating corruption effectively.
Mr Samuel Harrison Cudjoe, the Programmes Officer of GACC, highlighted the influence of political financiers in Ghanaian elections, noting that their interests may not always align with the national interest. He pointed out that the competitiveness of elections in Ghana has led to polarization and division among citizens, with politics becoming a life-and-death affair due to the significant financial stakes involved.
