Former Auditor-General Domelevo defends legitimacy of ORAL Committee

Former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, a member of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, has mounted a strong defence of the committee's legitimacy amid criticism of its operations by the Minority in Parliament.

Speaking on Joy News' Upfront programme on Wednesday, January 15, Mr Domelevo challenged critics to substantiate their claims or seek legal redress.

“I’m waiting for someone to show me which law says you need specific authorisation to collect data on the abuse of state resources, public funds, and the looting of government properties. Until then, I stand by our work,” he stated.

Minority opposition

The Minority in Parliament has strongly opposed the committee’s establishment, describing it as unconstitutional. Led by Suame MP John Darko, the Minority caucus has advised former government officials to boycott any invitations from ORAL, arguing that constitutionally mandated institutions are already in place to investigate such matters.

“No serious country will entertain anything like this,” Mr Darko asserted.

“If you are a former government official and receive an invitation from this so-called ORAL, the Minority’s advice is to boycott it. We believe constitutionally mandated bodies are equipped to investigate alleged mistakes of the government.”

Domelevo clarifies ORAL’s role

In response to the Minority’s criticisms, Mr Domelevo clarified that ORAL’s mandate is strictly limited to data collection and verification.

“We don’t accuse or investigate anyone. Our role is to gather information, validate claims such as demolished buildings or encroachments on state lands, and forward our findings to the appropriate authorities,” he explained.

Addressing allegations that ORAL duplicates the work of existing anti-corruption institutions, Mr Domelevo argued that the committee was created to address inefficiencies in the current system.

“If these institutions were functioning optimally, we wouldn’t be here today. Our role is to complement, not compete with, their efforts,” he said.

He also dismissed accusations that the committee acts as an enforcement body.

“When we identify issues, we inform national security, which coordinates any necessary actions. We have no enforcement powers,” he clarified.

Allegations of political bias

Responding to accusations of political bias, Mr Domelevo accused critics of hypocrisy, noting that similar initiatives under previous administrations faced little opposition.

“The best form of defence for some is an attack. But let’s focus on the goal—recovering what rightfully belongs to the people,” he remarked.

ORAL’s mandate and leadership

The Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, established on December 18, 2024, has been tasked with recovering looted state assets.

Chaired by North Tongu MP Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the committee has urged Ghanaians to share information via its hotlines, website, and email, emphasising transparency and accountability.

Despite the backlash, ORAL maintains that it operates strictly within the law and is committed to serving the public interest.

Related article

All you need to know about Operation-Recover-All-Loot (ORAL)