The Upper East Regional Minister, Donatus Akamugri Atanga, has urged government appointees in the region to uphold integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct while rejecting all forms of corruption in the discharge of their duties.
Speaking during a Regional Coordinating Council meeting held in Bolgatanga on Monday, May 26, Mr Atanga addressed a gathering that included District Chief Executives (DCEs), Presiding Members, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and development partners. He expressed grave concern over what he perceived as a widespread culture of corruption that extends beyond politicians and deeply into the ranks of technocrats.
According to the Minister, public discourse often frames corruption as a purely political issue. Still, the problem is far more complex and entrenched. He emphasised that technocrats frequently play a pivotal role in enabling corrupt practices by showing politicians how to manipulate documents and systems. He pointed out that politicians themselves often do not manipulate records but instead rely on the guidance and complicity of bureaucrats and office staff, who are familiar with the inner workings of the system.
Mr Atanga challenged the narrow perception that corruption is solely driven by those in elected office and called for a shared responsibility in addressing the rot. He insisted that reversing the trend of unethical behaviour in public service would require a collective stance from both political leaders and career civil servants alike.
Reaffirming the government’s position on accountability, the Minister highlighted measures introduced under President John Dramani Mahama’s leadership. Among these is a Code of Conduct and Ethics designed to guide public officials and reinforce principles of transparency, integrity, and responsible governance.
He specifically referenced ongoing concerns surrounding the smuggling of subsidised fertilisers, asserting that such practices have no place in the administration and should be met with zero tolerance. The new code, he explained, provides a framework that leaves no room for malfeasance, particularly in areas critical to national development, such as agriculture.
Mr Atanga called on all stakeholders to internalise the government’s anti-corruption stance, take the new code seriously, and commit to restoring trust in public institutions through responsible conduct and collaboration.
