Former Auditor General Daniel Yao Domelevo has stated that the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee, on which he serves, is not a formal institution but rather a team with a specific and limited mandate.

Speaking on Joy News’ Upfront on Wednesday, January 15, Domelevo explained that the team’s mission is to collect data and provide recommendations to the President for further action.

Mr Domelevo clarified that the ORAL team operates differently from existing anti-corruption agencies like the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) or the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

“The team is just collecting data,” he said.

“When we collect our data, we give it to the President. The President may decide, based upon our recommendations, whether to refer it to EOCO, the police, or the OSP, depending on the nature of the case.”

He underscored that ORAL’s work does not overlap with the responsibilities of these institutions but rather complements them by addressing gaps in their operations.

Mr Domelevo recounted his initial scepticism when asked to join the committee.

“When I was called to join, my first question was, ‘Why can’t they just go to the various institutions?’”

However, he concluded that existing institutions often lacked the capacity or will to address certain issues effectively.

“If these institutions were fit for purpose, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” he noted. “To fix them, you need data—data that can guide EOCO, the Auditor-General, or the OSP to act effectively.”

Mr Domelevo also highlighted the voluntary nature of his role on the committee.

“I’ve always been against creating new institutions that become a burden on the consolidated fund,” he said.

“When I was asked if we would be paid, I said I wouldn’t participate if it involved additional costs. It’s voluntary. I drive my own car, fuel it, and cover my own expenses.”

Addressing public backlash against ORAL, Domelevo suggested that fear of exposure fuels the resistance.

“The best form of defence is an attack,” he remarked. “Anyone who thinks this work might expose them will naturally resist.”

He also called out the perceived hypocrisy in public discourse.

“In 2017, the government engaged foreign firms to collect data and assist with investigations. Nobody complained. But now, when a local team is simply collecting data, it’s suddenly a problem.”

Mr Domelevo dismissed claims that the ORAL team is summoning individuals or conducting investigations. “We’re not even inviting anybody,” he said.

“Our job is limited to data collection. Investigation and prosecution are the responsibilities of the appropriate institutions.”