European Union supports seven bodies in governance initiatives
Ghana has received a 20-million Euro support from the European Union (EU) to support six governmental institutions and a non-governmental body in good governance initiatives.
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The six governmental institutions are the Ghana Police Service, the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the Attorney-General’s Department, the Judicial Service, the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO) and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).
The non-governmental institution is STAR-Ghana.
Assurance
At the launch of the EU-Ghana Anti-Corruption, Rule of Law and Accountability Programme (ARAP), a Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Jonny Osei Kofi, gave assurances of the dedication and commitment of stakeholders to the fight against corruption.
He said the commitment of partner institutions would result in some amendments to some laws to make for transparency.
For instance, the Companies Code would undergo a review to ensure that anyone with even a minimal interest in a business concern would be known.
That, he said, would ensure that no one fronted for any other person to hide undue benefits and gains.
Efforts
Mr Osei Kofi also disclosed that by the end of the year, partners under the country’s National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP) would ensure the extensive dissemination of information on citizens’ responsibilities in exposing corruption nationwide.
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He urged donor partners to also be transparent as they support anti-corruption initiatives by making it difficult for people to hide unjust gain in their jurisdiction.
Home-grown policies
The EU Ambassador to Ghana, Mr William Hanna, stressed the benefits of home-grown policies and leadership in all development efforts.
He pointed out that a dearth of home-grown initiatives resulted in less effectiveness in any support programme.
She also stressed the need for different governmental agencies to work together in a coordinated manner to see to the successful implementation of policies.
Effectiveness
The Team Leader for the EU-Ghana ARAP, Ms Inma Zamora, in her remarks, said the support would facilitate the reforms that the country had pledged itself to.
She challenged partners to ensure that by the end of the support period in five years’ time there would be a success story to share with other countries.
The acting Commissioner of CHRAJ, Mr Richard Quayson, welcoming guests, said the EU support would contribute to the promotion of good governance, ensure compliance with the rule of law and improve accountability and commended the Union for the support.
The Minister of Finance, Mr Seth Terkper, whose speech was read on his behalf by an official of the ministry, Mrs Magdalene Apenteng, commended the support of the EU to Ghana and pledged further reforms to ensure good governance.
Writer's email: caroline.boateng@graphic.com.gh