Former Attorney General, Yaw Domelevo has urged President Mahama to prioritize the passing of the Conduct of Public Office Holders Bill, a legislative measure that could help address the ongoing issues related to asset declaration and public office accountability.
Speaking on Prime News on ABC News GH, Domelevo explained that while the current laws are beneficial, they are not sufficient to ensure full transparency and prevent potential abuses by public officials.
“I will recommend strongly that the President should consider passing the Conduct of Public Office Holders Bill. That bill will resolve the issues,” Domelevo stated, outlining how the bill could help close the gaps in the current system.
He suggested that the bill could provide clearer guidelines for asset declaration and enforcement, ensuring that public officials comply with the law and are held accountable for their actions.
Domelevo emphasized that while the existing legal framework under Act 550 is helpful, it allows too much leeway for public officials to delay their declarations.
“Even if there is any delay, it should not be more than a week or two,” he stressed, noting that any further delay could encourage unethical behavior and anticipatory declarations.
His comments come as President Mahama has pushed for all government appointees to declare their assets by the end of the first quarter of 2025, warning of possible sanctions for non-compliance.
Domelevo applauded the President’s stance but reiterated that a stronger legal framework is necessary to support these efforts and create a more accountable public service.
