Managing Editor of The Informer, Andy Kankam, has raised concerns over what he describes as the gradual erosion of standards and public confidence in Ghana’s Parliament.
Speaking on Kessben Maakye show in Accra, Kankam emphasized that, recent developments surrounding allegations of attempts to influence parliamentarians with money on vetting point to deeper problems that must not be ignored.
“My concern is that Parliament is gradually crumbling,” he said.
Kankam recalled an earlier controversy in which Hon. P.C. Appiah-Ofori, Former member of Parliament, Asikuma- Odoben – Brakwa constituency, reportedly revealed an alleged attempt to bribe parliamentarians with $5,000 each in connection with the sale of Ghana Telecom, but was bustadised. He emphasized that, reaction to such revelations should serve as a warning.
With reference to Patricia Appiah Agyei’s recent return of alleged inducement in relation to vetting of government appointees, he stressed that issues presented through formal memoranda should not be treated lightly.
“Any issue that comes with a memo is not a small issue,” he noted.
Expressing disappointment over what he considers ungentlemanly conduct within the legislature, Kankam said he would not seek election to Parliament because of such behaviour.
“I will never put myself out to be voted to that House because of these infectious behaviours,” he stated.
Kankam further called on the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), or the Attorney-General’s Office to take the matter up and establish the facts.
He also questioned how Ghana can ensure that political leaders are held accountable for their actions.
“What can we do to hold our leaders accountable?” he asked.
According to him, Parliament risks undermining its own credibility if such issues are not properly investigated.
“I think Parliament is digging its own grave and it is not good for our democracy,” Kankam cautioned.
He subsequently called on the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to investigate the matter, stressing the need for caution before the situation produces unintended consequences.
“We should be very careful before the boomerang comes,” he warned.
