Asiedu Nketiah: Anti-Corruption Efforts Will Target Both Past and Present Officials

The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has emphasized that the ongoing campaign against corruption is not solely aimed at former government officials but also includes appointees of the current administration.

Speaking at the 46th anniversary national durbar held at Laasi Park in Odumase-Krobo, Eastern Region, Mr. Asiedu Nketia clarified that the party’s agenda to “reset” the nation is designed to ensure accountability across the board—regardless of political affiliation.

“We are not only dealing with the excesses of the previous government; we must also send a clear message to our own party members and appointees. The same accountability expected of former officials will also be applied to anyone within our ranks who engages in corrupt practices,” he asserted.

The event commemorated the June 4 uprising led by Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings, the NDC’s founder. This historic uprising is remembered as a pivotal moment in Ghana’s political history, marked by widespread demands for honesty, justice, and an end to corruption among the ruling elite.

This year’s anniversary was celebrated under the theme: “Resetting Ghana; Reflecting on June 4,” underscoring the ongoing commitment to reform and good governance.

Indiscriminate Accountability Is Key

Mr. Asiedu Nketia underscored the importance of impartial and decisive action in the fight against corruption. He suggested that only through such fairness will the Ghanaian public believe in the government’s sincerity to restore integrity and foster progress.

“It is when these actions are applied indiscriminately, without favoritism, that the people will see that we are truly on the path to resetting the nation towards truth and accountability,” he said.

He further explained that the investigations, arrests, and prosecutions involving officials from the past government should not be mistaken for political revenge.

“This effort is about holding people responsible for their actions during their time in office. It is about ensuring that the mandate given by Ghanaians is respected and that public resources are protected. No political party should be allowed to serve as a shield for criminals,” Mr. Asiedu Nketia stressed.

Celebrating Party Legacy and New Initiatives

In addition to addressing corruption, the NDC Chairman announced new proposals to strengthen party identity and commemorate its rich history.

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the NDC has suggested declaring the month of June as “NDC Month.” This initiative aims to provide a designated period for celebrating the party’s anniversaries and hosting other significant events.

Moreover, Mr. Asiedu Nketia revealed a motion to rename the party’s national headquarters in honor of the late Jerry John Rawlings, the party’s founding father and a transformative figure in Ghana’s political landscape.

Reflections on the June 4 Uprising

Shine Gavey, National Chairman of the United Cadres Front (UCF), also spoke at the durbar, affirming the lasting impact of the June 4 uprising.

He described the uprising as a justified response to decades of mismanagement and abuse of state resources. According to Mr. Gavey, June 4 marked a turning point—a shift away from governance that prioritized the interests of a few toward a government that places people at the center of its policies and decisions.

The Road Ahead

As the NDC commemorates the legacy of June 4, its leaders remain focused on driving the party’s agenda to combat corruption and restore national integrity. The Chairman’s message sends a clear warning that accountability will extend beyond political opponents to include members of the ruling party who fail to uphold ethical standards.

The call for indiscriminate justice reflects the party’s pledge to rebuild trust between the government and the people, ensuring that Ghana progresses on a foundation of transparency, fairness, and respect for the rule of law.