Corruption is Pervasive - Agambila

The Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. Gheysika Agambila has said curbing corruption in the nation is a very difficult task due to its pervasive impact on the society. "In almost all government and private procurement there is corruption," he said.

He said prosperity is highly desired by Ghanaians and they want to achieve it at all costs without caring who would be the loser.

Dr. Agambila was a guest speaker at a conference in Accra dubbed "the national fight against corruption, the role of the accountant" organized by the Accounting Students Union (ASU) of the Central University College (CUC).

He said the role of accountants in curbing corruption is crucial since they form the pivot on which government and private procurement and monetary assets fall.

He said accountants must lead the crusade against corruption because they are at the centre of it. They must eschew conflict of interest which has been one of the most dangerous tools affecting the economy.

Dr. Agambila said nepotism is a big canker and can therefore not be overlooked. He said in Ghana and elsewhere many people are put in positions they do not deserve.

The Head of Department of CUC, Mr. Appiah chairing the function said the role of the accountant is very significant, especially in the light of the fact that there are six or more accountants in the current parliament.

He said greed, a desire to get quick rich and indiscipline are the main cause of the nation's woes.

The President of Chartered Accountants Students Society (CASS), Mr. Frank Richard Torblu said whenever one hears about corruption one quickly points fingers at ministers, directors and other top government officials forgetting that everyone is corrupt.

He said to be able to fight the canker and eradicate it in the society; honesty should be the watchword.