Mahama Directs Attorney General to Launch Immediate Investigation into ORAL Report

President John Dramani Mahama has called for an immediate investigation into the suspected corruption detailed in the ‘Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL)’ report. He directed the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, to begin prompt action based on the findings outlined in the comprehensive report submitted by the ORAL committee. The initiative, which was launched to recover state assets wrongfully taken and return them to the Ghanaian people, has uncovered significant financial mismanagement and the misappropriation of public funds.

Upon receiving the report on Monday, February 10, President Mahama emphasized the urgency of the situation. “I have immediately handed over the report to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, and I have given him firm instructions to launch an immediate investigation into the matters reported,” he said. He made it clear that anyone found responsible for corruption or related crimes would face prosecution, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions.

In his address, President Mahama sent a strong message to those who may believe they can evade justice. He cautioned that corruption would no longer be tolerated in Ghana. “To those who think they can deceive the state and avoid the consequences, this should serve as a clear warning: Ghana will no longer accept such misconduct,” Mahama declared. He further reassured those who value integrity, accountability, and the rule of law, emphasizing that his government remains dedicated to building a nation where hard work and honesty are rewarded.

The President expressed deep concern over the findings of the report, which exposed how public funds have been diverted for personal gain, undermining national development and eroding public trust. “It is with great solemnity that I receive this report from Operation Recover All Loot, an initiative that stands as a symbol of our steadfast commitment to tackling corruption, financial misconduct, and the misuse of public resources,” he said. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that public funds are utilized for the collective good, stating that the misuse of these resources only deepens inequality and hinders progress.

The ORAL initiative has been a crucial part of President Mahama’s broader effort to restore public confidence in the government and ensure accountability in the management of state resources. He commended the ORAL team for their professionalism and dedication to the task, noting that they had carried out their work without expecting compensation or reward. The report reflects the seriousness with which his administration is approaching the fight against corruption, as well as its determination to recover assets and make them available for national development.

“The findings in this report are alarming,” Mahama acknowledged. “They reveal the significant financial losses our nation has endured, losses that should have been invested in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social development.” Despite the gravity of the revelations, the President expressed hope that the work of the ORAL committee would lead to positive change. He stressed that through collective efforts, Ghana could not only reclaim lost assets but also prevent future occurrences of financial misconduct.

In his response to the report, President Mahama assured the public that the investigation would not be limited to the submission of the document. “The recommendations in this report will be carefully reviewed, and any necessary legal action will be pursued without fear or favor,” he affirmed. He reiterated that the government would ensure that all recovered resources are redirected toward national development. Furthermore, he pledged to strengthen mechanisms aimed at preventing the misappropriation of public funds in the future.

President Mahama’s remarks underscored the importance of integrity and transparency in governance. His administration remains committed to fighting corruption, ensuring accountability, and making sure that the people of Ghana see the tangible benefits of the nation’s resources. The ORAL initiative and the President’s decisive actions signal a strong message that corruption will not go unchecked and that public trust is paramount in Ghana’s path toward sustainable development. The investigations and legal actions that follow will play a critical role in reshaping the governance landscape and restoring confidence in the management of public resources.