“Corruption is a cancer that erodes our nation” — Mahama urges stronger anti-corruption fight
President John Dramani Mahama has described corruption as a serious threat to Ghana’s national development, warning that corrupt practices undermine education, healthcare, and infrastructure delivery across the country.
Speaking during the 69th Independence Anniversary , President Mahama said corruption weakens governance systems and denies citizens access to essential public services.
“Corruption is a cancer that erodes the very foundation of our nation,” he stated. “Every cedi that is stolen from the public purse represents a classroom that is robbed of textbooks, a hospital that will go without medicines, and a road that will be left uncompleted.”
The President emphasized that fighting corruption remains a key priority of his administration, adding that government is strengthening anti-corruption institutions to improve transparency and accountability in public service delivery.
“Under my leadership, we are not just fighting corruption with words alone. We are strengthening institutions, protecting anti-corruption agencies from political interference, and ensuring that no individual, regardless of their status or political affiliation, is above the law,” he said.
President Mahama also called for a national culture of integrity, urging citizens to support the fight against corruption through ethical conduct in both public and private life.
“Government cannot win this battle alone. We must build a national culture of integrity where honesty is valued and public service is regarded as a sacred duty,” he added.
He further urged public servants and political leaders to demonstrate accountability and transparency in the management of national resources.
“Leadership must be accountable. Independence granted us freedom, but freedom demands responsibility,” he said.
President Mahama stressed that Ghana’s development depends on collective responsibility, urging citizens to place national interest above personal or partisan interests.
“Above all, we must place country above party, above tribe, and above personal interests. Ghana is bigger than any one of us,” he said.
