‘Corruption goes beyond perception; things are getting out of hand’ – Domelevo on state failures

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Former Auditor General Daniel Yao Domelevo has raised pressing concerns over Ghana’s deepening corruption crisis.

He stated that the issue is no longer a mere perception but a “systemic entrenchment” that has infiltrated all arms of government.

Mr Domelevo made these comments following the recent Afrobarometer survey findings which revealed public trust in institutions is at an all-time low and concerns about corruption are mounting.

“Let me begin by saying that one of the Directive Principles of State Policy, stated in clause eight of Article 35, underscores that the state shall take steps to eradicate corrupt practices and abuse of power,” Domelevo noted.

“But here we are with a presidency, a legislature, and even a judiciary that are all ranked highly in terms of corruption. Where does that leave us?”

Reflecting on recent reports, Domelevo highlighted the difficulty for citizens seeking justice and redress, asking, “Does it mean we are running to a situation where, when you hit me, I hit you back because there’s no hope of justice?”

The former Auditor General warned that the frequency of unaddressed fiscal irresponsibility had allowed corruption to become “endemic” within Ghanaian society.

“It’s becoming entrenched because there are no consequences. Today, it’s easy for every institution to become corrupt,” he lamented, adding that this normalisation should worry leaders of all institutions.

Mr Domelevo’s plea comes as Ghana prepares for a significant election season.

“Corruption isn’t just a perception to be dismissed,” he argued, highlighting how this reality undermines governance.

“If you’re identified as high in corruption—whether judiciary, legislature or even the Electoral Commission—you should be worried,” he said.