Group to check misuse of public office formed in Ghana

A civic pressure group, Ethics Foundation, Ghana, has been formed in the capital Accra to check misuse and overuse of public office. It also aims at championing the cause of accountability and the observance of ethics by public office holders.

Mr Tom Lithur, a member of the governing council of the group, told the Ghana News Agency that the group would create awareness and consciousness among the Ghanaian public on the need for public officer holders to uphold high moral principles.

Ethics Foundation, he explained, is a non-partisan group whose membership cuts across the political divide, adding that it comprises members of the executive, legislature, judiciary and the civil service.

Mr. Lithur said the foundation intends to work in partnership with private and public sector institutions as well as international organisations and NGOs committed to the same goals.

He expressed the hope that the print and electronic media would play a crucial role of informing and educating the public about the concerns of the foundation. He cited corruption, irresponsible utterances and media related excesses as well as other matters that can be brought under control through good ethical conduct and public accountability.

Mr. Lithur pointed out that symposia, seminars, workshops and press releases would be the main vehicle for pursuing the goals of Ethics Foundation.