Sulemana Braimah, the Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), has issued a compelling call to Ghanaians to raise their voices and actively engage in matters of critical national interest, particularly in the fight against corruption. During a public lecture organized by the Centre for African Studies at the University of Education, Winneba, Braimah emphasized that effecting the desired change requires the collective contribution of all individuals who choose right over wrong.
The event, commemorating African Union (AU) Day, focused on the theme: “Power, Corruption, and Cognitive Capture; The Tragedy of a Rich But Poor Nation.” Braimah expressed concern that the pursuit of public sector accountability and the fight against corruption had been reduced to mere political slogans and moral crusades by leaders who often failed to practice what they preached.
Braimah referenced past leaders, such as the late former President Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings, who initiated a house cleaning exercise and even executed individuals for corruption, only to witness the persistence of corruption in the end. He also mentioned former President John Kufour, who championed “zero tolerance for corruption” but reminded the citizenry that corruption existed from the very beginning.
Highlighting the limitations of anti-corruption laws, Braimah emphasized that laws alone cannot solve the problem as they are created and enforced by individuals. He noted that Chapter 12 of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees freedom and independence of the media, aimed to strengthen the country’s democracy. However, the growth of the media landscape, which should have served as a strong watchdog against corruption and abuse of power, has fallen short of expectations.
Amidst the challenges, Braimah expressed hope and confidence in a brighter future for Ghana. He called for unity, emphasizing the importance of revisiting core values such as truth, honesty, and love for God and country. Braimah urged Ghanaians not to remain silent or constrained in public debates but to let their voices become the voice of justice, for in a silent world, a lonely voice can be louder.
He reminded citizens of the hard-fought independence and freedom that came at the expense of lives. Braimah urged everyone to do their part in shaping the future of the country, working towards a Ghana that transcends its current status as a rich but poor nation. He stressed the need for equity, prosperity, and an understanding that true worth is not solely defined by wealth but also by the power of voices and values.
In conclusion, Sulemana Braimah’s call to action resonates with the urgency of the fight against corruption in Ghana. By speaking up, upholding truth, and demanding justice, Ghanaians can contribute to shaping a brighter future for their nation. Unity and a strong, independent media will play crucial roles in combating corruption and striving for prosperity.
