The Executive Director of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), Mary Addah, has suggested the creation of a confidential and proactive complaint system to address bribery cases in the country.
This proposal comes in the wake of revelations from JoyNews’ investigations, which exposed how customs officials accept bribes to facilitate the transportation of smuggled goods into the local markets from neighbouring countries.
According to the report, these officials receive bribes ranging from ¢20 to ¢200 to turn a blind eye to traders who have avoided paying taxes on their goods.
During an appearance on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mary Addah emphasized the need for a reliable complaint system where individuals can report issues confidentially and expect swift resolutions.
“It is crucial to have a mechanism in place where people can lodge complaints confidently and anticipate effective solutions,” she stated.
She further highlighted the importance of establishing a toll-free line for reporting bribery cases within the customs division to enhance transparency and accountability.
In efforts to combat corruption, Mary Addah revealed ongoing training programs for customs officials to enhance their integrity and efficiency.
She emphasized the significance of implementing a robust system that holds wrongdoers accountable for their actions, thereby deterring others from engaging in corrupt practices.
“It is essential to demonstrate that there are consequences for such actions. By ensuring that those guilty of bribery face legal repercussions, we can effectively combat this menace,” Mary Addah added.
The proposed confidential complaint system is expected to promote transparency, integrity, and accountability within the customs division, ultimately leading to a significant reduction in bribery-related incidents.
