Elections Watch Ghana commends Mahama for setting up ORAL, urges cooperation of all

President John Mahama

Elections Watch Ghana has commended President John Dramani Mahama for establishing Operations Recover All Loot (ORAL).

“This bold initiative is a testament to the President's unrelenting commitment to combating corruption and promoting transparency in governance,” Elections Watch Ghana said in a statement it issued Wednesday, January 22, 2025.

Elections Watch Ghana said ORAL's primary objective of recovering looted state funds and assets is a laudable endeavour that resonates with the aspirations of the Ghanaian people and expressed the hope that “this operation will not only restore the nation's wealth but also serve as a deterrent to potential corrupt officials.

“It is unfortunate that some elements, particularly the minority in parliament, have been criticizing ORAL's establishment. Their constant attacks and attempts to undermine the operation's credibility only serve to expose their own fears and guilt. As the saying goes, "the witch is the one scared of witch hunting, not the upright."

“We urge the minority to cooperate with ORAL and recognize the value of this operation in promoting transparency and accountability. Their posturing and grandstanding will not deter the Ghanaian people from demanding accountability and justice.

“To the previous government, we say: fear not, for ORAL's mandate is to recover looted state funds and assets, not to witch-hunt innocent individuals. If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear. We encourage you to support ORAL's efforts and join hands in the fight against corruption.”

Elections Watch Ghana also called on the government to empower ORAL with the necessary resources and authority to execute its mandate effectively.

It suggested granting ORAL the power to ask the police to arrest individuals who refuse to appear when invited to ensure that no one is above the law.

“Once again, we commend President Mahama for his vision and leadership in establishing ORAL. We wish ORAL well in its endeavors and look forward to seeing tangible results in the fight against corruption. “Together, we can build a better Ghana, free from corruption and injustice.”