The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has expressed grave concern over Africa’s apparent lack of interest in combating corruption.
In an interview with AkuapemHann on Okyeame Radio’s social program Oman No Adwuma, the NCCE Director for Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai Municipality, MARTHA NNEKA OPARA, lamented Ghana’s reluctance to eliminate corruption, stating that Africa as a whole has normalized it as part of daily life and no longer views it as a crime.
Citing instances, she noted that corruption begins in communities, where acts such as farmers’ cooperative leaders selling agrochemicals meant for farmers, tax evasion, and encouraging children to lie to creditors are all corrupt practices.
Ms. Opara refuted claims that corruption primarily stems from high-ranking officials or politicians, emphasizing that refusing to perform one’s duties is a form of corruption against Ghana. “When I refuse to do my work, that is corruption against Ghana,” she said.
She stressed that defeating corruption requires a collective change in behavior, adding that no prophetic cleansing is needed, “we all have to do what is right.”
Ms. Opara warned that if Ghanaians continue to politically gamble with Ghana and prioritize party interests over national interests, the country will see no progress.
Story by: Akuapem-Hann Kwame Omono Asamoah