Kennedy Osei Nyarko, the Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru, has emphasized that asset declarations by public office holders are not optional but a legal obligation.
In a recent post on his Facebook wall, Nyarko voiced concern over the lack of transparency in the country’s asset declaration system, urging that the names of those who declare their assets should be made public, alongside those who fail to do so.
Nyarko further suggested that the system should be strengthened by ensuring that the details of assets declared by public office holders are published before they take office and after they exit. He proposed that these declarations should be made annually and subsequently published by the Auditor General.
“The law is clear on asset declarations. It is illegal and even criminal for any public office holder to refuse to declare their assets. It should not take a directive from the president for public officials to comply with this requirement,” Nyarko stated.
He added that, in his opinion, the failure to implement a robust system of asset declaration and publication has led to a growing lack of trust in public institutions. By making asset declarations publicly accessible, Nyarko believes Ghana could make a major step in combating corruption and ensuring that public office holders are held to the highest standards of integrity.
The MP’s stance comes at a time when Ghana continues to grapple with issues of corruption, particularly within the public sector. Nyarko’s call for transparency aligns with efforts by anti-corruption advocates and civil society organizations who have long demanded more rigorous enforcement of asset declaration laws.
The MP concluded by reiterating that public office holders should not see asset declaration as a burden but as a critical tool for promoting public trust and upholding the rule of law.
