Mahama to sacrifice presidential powers to fight corruption – Okudzeto Ablakwa

The Chairman of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has revealed that President-elect John Dramani Mahama is committed to reducing his presidential powers as part of a broad strategy to combat corruption. 

In an interview on Joy FM on Thursday, December 18, 2024, Mr. Ablakwa stated that this decision reflects Mahama’s willingness to prioritise national accountability over personal authority.

Mr. Ablakwa explained that one of the most significant measures involves reducing the powers of the presidency to address systemic corruption and ensure stronger checks and balances.

“This president-elect has decided to sacrifice some of his powers to decentralise authority and create independent centres of power,” Mr. Ablakwa said.

He added that Mr. Mahama’s plan includes reducing the president’s dominance in appointments and empowering parliament to act independently.

According to Mr. Ablakwa, the reforms will be rooted in constitutional changes and confirmed that Mr. Mahama intends to revisit the constitutional review process initiated by late President John Evans Atta Mills. 

Within the first 120 days of his presidency, Mr. Mahama plans to organise a national constitutional review validation conference to address outdated provisions and incorporate measures to curb corruption.

In addition, Mr. Mahama has proposed legislation to prevent political appointees and politically exposed persons from acquiring state assets.

He indicated that this move, combined with constitutional amendments, aims to dismantle the concentration of power and establish a governance structure that promotes transparency and accountability.

Mr. Ablakwa further reiterated the ORAL Team’s commitment to serving without allowances, fuel coupons, or any form of financial reward. 

“This is a sacrificial effort for God and country,” he stated, noting that the team is determined to recover stolen public funds and restore public confidence.

These sweeping reforms, Ablakwa argued, signal a transformative era in Ghana’s fight against corruption, underscoring Mr. Mahama’s determination to put national interest above personal gain.