Accountability is a foundational principle of democratic governance, ensuring that those entrusted with public office act responsibly, ethically, and in the best interest of citizens. In Ghana, recent controversies surrounding the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and high-profile investigations, including the ongoing SML-related case, have brought the issue of accountability into sharp focus. Dr. Joshua Zaato, a policy analyst and senior lecturer, has highlighted the urgent need for Ghana to take accountability seriously, both during and after political administrations, in order to strengthen democracy and prevent recurring scandals.
Dr. Zaato emphasizes that anyone who assumes public office must be fully aware that a day of reckoning awaits them. Public officials are expected to make decisions with integrity, knowing that their actions may be scrutinized long after they leave office. “Anyone who takes an oath of office must know that a day will come when they take another oath to account for their actions,” he asserts. This principle underlines the enduring nature of accountability as a democratic requirement, rather than a temporary political convenience. By instilling a culture of responsibility among public office holders, the nation can ensure that ethical governance is not compromised by personal interests or partisan considerations.
A critical aspect of Dr. Zaato’s argument is that accountability should transcend the tenure of any single administration. Governments in power have the legitimate right to investigate the actions of their predecessors, provided that basic legal rights are respected. This ensures that no public official is above the law and reinforces the principle that democracy relies on a system of checks and balances. When accountability is neglected, it fosters impunity, erodes public trust, and weakens democratic institutions. Conversely, consistent enforcement of accountability safeguards citizens’ confidence in their leaders and strengthens institutional integrity.
While advocating for accountability, Dr. Zaato also critiques the current structure and effectiveness of the OSP. Established to investigate corruption and promote transparency in public service, the OSP was envisioned as a critical instrument for enhancing governance. However, Dr. Zaato contends that the office has outlived its usefulness and questions whether it delivers sufficient value relative to the resources it consumes. “If you do a simple value-for-money analysis, Ghana is making a loss,” he explains. He suggests that funds currently allocated to the OSP could be redirected toward development projects with immediate and tangible benefits, such as improving roads, supporting markets, maintaining buffer stocks, and assisting farmers. By prioritizing these areas, the government could simultaneously promote accountability and meet citizens’ pressing developmental needs.
Another concern highlighted by Dr. Zaato is the issue of inter-agency cooperation. Effective collaboration between the OSP and other state institutions—including the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Narcotics Investigation Bureau (NIB), National Security, and Immigration services—is essential for achieving governance objectives. However, Dr. Zaato notes that cooperation is not automatic; it relies on trust, mutual respect, and strong leadership. “Cooperation is earned, like respect,” he observes. “If you have good relationships and good leadership, officers will put everything down and help you immediately. If they don’t trust you, they will delay you.” The ongoing complaints from both sides suggest that structural challenges within the OSP hinder its effectiveness and require targeted reforms to enhance operational efficiency.
Dr. Zaato also emphasizes the importance of allowing the judiciary to serve as the arbiter in disputes involving public institutions. Rather than turning controversies into public confrontations or “shouting matches,” the courts provide a neutral platform to examine facts, adjudicate disagreements, and uphold the rule of law. By relying on judicial processes, Ghana can ensure that accountability is applied fairly and transparently, protecting both public interest and institutional integrity.
In conclusion, the insights shared by Dr. Joshua Zaato underscore the essential role of accountability in Ghanaian democracy. Public office holders must understand that their actions carry consequences and that ethical governance is non-negotiable. While institutions like the OSP were created to strengthen transparency and combat corruption, their effectiveness must be periodically reviewed to ensure that public resources are used efficiently and that objectives are achieved. Fostering cooperation among state agencies based on trust, respect, and professionalism is equally critical to effective governance. Finally, the judiciary remains the ultimate guardian of accountability, ensuring that justice is served impartially.
By embedding accountability into every level of public service, Ghana can build a more resilient and trustworthy democratic system. Upholding these principles ensures that governance is not only effective but also responsive to the needs of citizens, ultimately strengthening the nation’s democratic foundations and promoting sustainable development.