The Crusaders Against Corruption, Ghana (CACG) has called on President John Dramani Mahama to ensure that newly appointed public officers declare their assets and liabilities in compliance with Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution.
This mandates the declaration of assets and liabilities before assuming office, said the CACG, a non-governmental organisation working in a non-partisan manner to fight corruption.
A statement copied to the Ghana News Agency on Thursday emphasised the need to adhere to the constitutional requirement to foster transparency, accountability, and integrity in the country's governance system.
"As the President of Ghana, CACG implore you to ensure strict adherence to this legal obligation by swearing into office only those who have declared their assets and liabilities," it said.
"This will strengthen public trust in government and provide a clearer view of public officials' financial standing."
Article 286 of the 1992 Constitution mandates that public officeholders - the President, Vice President, Members of Parliament, ministers, ambassadors, and judges - submit a written declaration of their assets, liabilities, and interests to the Auditor-General before taking office, at the end of each four-year term, and upon leaving office.
The provision must be enforced to combat corruption and ensure that public officials were held accountable for their financial dealings, the statement said.
"For avoidance of doubt, Article 286 (1) of the 1992 Constitution states that 'a person who holds a public office mentioned in clause (5) of this article shall submit to the Auditor-General a written declaration of all property or assets owned by, or liabilities owed by him, whether directly or indirectly," it said.
The call comes at a time when the enforcement of asset declaration is seen as a crucial mechanism in the fight against corruption and a step towards promoting good governance in Ghana.