Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has warned that corruption in Africa is taking on new and dangerous forms, describing it as a “chameleon” that keeps evolving through technology and organized crime.
He said the growing sophistication of corruption demands stronger unity among African parliaments and a renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Mr. Bagbin was speaking at the opening of the 9th Biennial General Meeting of the African Parliamentarians’ Network Against Corruption (APNAC) in Accra, where lawmakers from across the continent gathered to strengthen collaboration in the fight against graft.
He cautioned that corruption continues to drain Africa’s resources, weaken trust in leadership, and deepen poverty. Parliamentarians, he said, must take the lead in restoring confidence by acting with integrity and ensuring that institutions remain accountable.
Highlighting Ghana’s own steps, the Speaker pointed to reforms such as the establishment of oversight committees, the Ethics and Standards Committee, and the office of a Commissioner of Standards. He also cited the creation of the Citizens’ Bureau and the Anti-Corruption Department to promote transparency and citizen participation.
Mr. Bagbin reaffirmed Ghana’s readiness to participate in the next phase of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption review, saying public trust remains the foundation of democracy.
The President of APNAC and Speaker of Benin’s National Assembly, Louis G. Vlavonou, also urged African lawmakers to remain steadfast and uphold integrity in governance.
Clerk to Parliament Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror and representatives of both the Majority and Minority Leaders echoed calls for unity in the continent’s anti-corruption efforts.
The meeting ended with awards presented to Speakers Bagbin and Vlavonou in recognition of their leadership and dedication to promoting transparency and accountability in Africa.
