Stephen Baidoo Jnr, the 2024 National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for Assin South, has asserted that the current administration is addressing corruption with the maximum rigor permitted by law.
The young politician argued that the wheels of justice turn slowly and urged Ghanaians to remain patient as the state initiates legal proceedings against individuals suspected of engaging in corrupt practices during their time in office.
He emphasised that under the prevailing rule of law, the judiciary remains the sole venue for the prosecution of accused persons.
While acknowledging that the legal process is inherently time-consuming, Baidoo Jnr also claimed that the previous government’s strategy of packing the courts with political loyalists has significantly impacted the efficiency and operation of the judicial system.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Baidoo Jnr remarked that the party is fighting corruption in the most effective way possible within a democratic framework.
He noted that while the NDC has its roots in a revolutionary era, it now operates strictly within a democratic dispensation where accused persons must be subjected to the court system.
He lamented that the opposition has “packed our courts with their own people.”
When prompted regarding President John Dramani Mahama’s own judicial appointments, he clarified that while such appointments are a matter of record, they do not negate the fact that the previous administration intentionally filled the courts with partisan figures.
He maintained that the most vital point is that processes are underway for those against whom evidence has been secured, even if these developments are not always highlighted in the media.
Furthermore, he noted that some individuals accused of embezzling state funds have already agreed to restitution.
He reassured the public that the state is actively prosecuting cases where sufficient evidence has been gathered, though he admitted the difficulty of the task.
He explained that proving guilt is a complex challenge because those accused of theft often cover their tracks meticulously.
He insisted that gathering the necessary evidence is a priority and assured citizens that the government remains vigilant, stating that “Operation Recover All Loot” is still in full swing.
Stephen Baidoo Jnr reiterated that President John Dramani Mahama and his government will not tolerate corruption and are committed to uprooting it entirely, despite the difficulty of the battle.
Describing corruption as an endemic issue, he underscored the urgent need for public collaboration and a fundamental transformation of the national mindset.
He called on Ghanaians to speak out against malpractice and to support state institutions in their pursuit of justice.
Addressing public concerns regarding the slow pace of these cases, he concluded that while the state is responsible for gathering evidence, the government cannot be held accountable for judicial delays, as it does not exercise control over the independent court system.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana