Mahama: Accountability Drive Is Based on Evidence, Not Political Vendetta

President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed that his administration’s accountability agenda is driven by evidence and due process, not political persecution. Speaking at the Citizens’ Engagement in the Volta Region, the President assured Ghanaians that ongoing investigations and prosecutions are aimed at strengthening the rule of law rather than targeting political opponents. “I do not harbour any malice against any person, and I take no pride in prosecuting anyone who has done no wrong,” President Mahama stated. He expressed confidence in Ghana’s investigative, prosecutorial and judicial institutions, saying they provide adequate safeguards to ensure justice is served. According to him, anyone who believes they are being prosecuted unfairly can rely on the courts to protect their rights. “If you’ve done no wrong and you’re being prosecuted maliciously, the courts will uphold your rights and set you free,” he said. President Mahama rejected claims that the government’s accountability campaign is intended to intimidate political opponents, explaining that investigations are initiated only after credible evidence has been received and carefully assessed. “We proceed on the basis of evidence we have received, and if that evidence is sufficient, we move forward,” he said. The President noted that accountability processes often take time because investigators must thoroughly examine all available evidence before taking action. He explained that by the time agencies such as the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), or other law enforcement bodies make an arrest, months of investigative work have already been completed. “By the time EOCO, OSP or another agency arrests a person, months of work have gone into reviewing the evidence,” he said. President Mahama reiterated that accountability remains a key priority of his administration and pledged that investigations into alleged wrongdoing would continue wherever there is credible evidence. He also stressed that the anti-corruption campaign would not spare members of his own government. According to him, ministers, political appointees and public officials serving under his administration would face investigation and prosecution if evidence showed they had abused the public trust. “The sword does not cut only one way. If we find evidence that any of our current appointees have abused the public trust, it will cut this way too,” he stated. The President said he has consistently advised his appointees to adhere strictly to established procedures and avoid actions that could expose them to allegations of misconduct. “I always caution my appointees to follow due process and not cut corners,” he said. He further encouraged ministers and senior government officials to seek Cabinet approval whenever they are uncertain about policy or administrative decisions, emphasizing the importance of collective decision-making. “If you have any doubts, bring the matter to Cabinet so that we can collectively consider it and make the right decision,” President Mahama added.