Corruption fight: We need the youth on board - Dr. Kojo Asante

Corruption Watch, an anti-graft initiative by the Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) has urged the youth to develop interest in issues affecting the society instead of isolating themselves and appearing unconcerned.

This, according to the association, can be done by joining hands in the fight against corruption and other dire social issues facing the country.

The group made up of various institutions including Ghana Integrity Initiative, Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, African Centre for International Law and Accountability (ACILA) and Joy FM are advocating for transparency and persistency in the fight against corrupt officials.

Speaking at the opening of a C-Watch Network; GIJ Chapter, in Accra today, Project Manager of Corruption Watch, Dr Kojo Asante said it was time for the youth to exhibit a strong sense of leadership and fairness to help build the country.

According to Dr. Asante, it was also important to have them on board the fight against corruption so they can grow up to become good leaders, demand accountability and avoid corrupt acts.

“Ghana’s population is growing and the youth make up the highest percentage. If we want to win this fight against corruption then we need to get that 57% or so that makes up the youth on board. We need them to know what corruption is and why they should be bothered about corrupt acts in the country. It’s not just about GIJ, we need this in all our tertiary institutions. When that is done, then we can be confident that when the fight is won, it will be sustained,” he said.

Other key speakers including Shamima Muslim, award-winning journalist and convener for Alliance for Women in Media Africa (AWMA), Broadcast Journalist Kojo Yankson and award-winning actor, Adjetey Anang all urged the students to sign up as corrupt watchers who will not only hold government officials accountably but their peers too.

Using instances like the rejection of the road tow levy and the establishment of the operation vanguard team, the speakers said these initiatives were as a result of the populace constantly asking for solutions to some of these problems.