BY Issah Olegor
President John Dramani Mahama has vowed that his administration will not shield anyone found culpable of corruption, stressing that only cases backed by solid evidence will be pursued in court.
Speaking during his first major media encounter since returning to office for his second term, the President outlined his government’s renewed anti-corruption drive under the banner Operation Recover the Loot.
According to him, more than 200 corruption-related cases are currently under active investigation, with about 80 individuals interrogated so far. Several of those cases, he confirmed, are already at different stages of prosecution.
Background of the Anti-Corruption Campaign
The fight against corruption has been a recurring theme throughout Mahama’s political career.
During his first term in office between 2012 and 2016, his government faced public criticism over corruption scandals such as the GYEEDA and SADA cases.
In the 2024 general election campaign, he pledged to restore integrity to public service by ensuring accountability and retrieving looted state funds.
The launch of Operation Recover the Loot formed part of this agenda immediately after he was sworn in for his second term in January 2025.
Progress So Far
Highlighting ongoing cases, President Mahama cited the Republic versus Adu Boahen and three others, where trials have commenced, and the controversial SkyTrain project, which now has a confirmed trial date.
In the National Service Authority scandal, he disclosed that charges had been prepared and would be filed in court when the new legal year begins.
Regarding the National cathedral project, government is awaiting a forensic audit from the Auditor-General before initiating prosecution.
“These cases are being handled methodically to avoid errors that could be exploited by defendants,” the President explained.
“Yes, our insistence on due process may afford those who have looted this country some temporary relief, but let me be clear—it will not grant them permanent escape.”
No Political Witch-Hunt
Mahama also addressed concerns that anti-corruption prosecutions could be politicized.
He emphasized that the government would act only on credible evidence. “Every case of corruption with sufficient proof will be prosecuted swiftly and firmly. We are not engaging in witch-hunts; we are pursuing justice for the people of Ghana,” he said.
