The Chairperson of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Team, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has promised the public that the committee will conduct investigations into potential corruption revealed by citizens in an open and fair manner.
On Joy News’ PM Express with Evans Mensah on Wednesday, December 18, he stated that the ORAL Team is entirely focused on gathering evidence of corruption and reporting findings to the relevant organizations.
Mr. Ablakwa underlined that the ORAL Team’s mandate does not include the authority to prosecute.
“Our parameters are clear. We are entrusted with acquiring evidence, analyzing data, and managing the reception of public reports.
“Based on this, we will produce a comprehensive report and hand it over to the relevant institutions for action,” stated the chairman.
He clarified that the team’s work is limited to the transition time and stressed the importance of their role in laying a solid foundation for the new administration.
“This transitional period allows us to put together evidence from unresolved cases—whether from the Auditor General’s office, parliamentary inquiries, or whistleblowers—into a comprehensive framework for further action by the Attorney General once appointed,” she said.
In response to inquiries about the ORAL Team’s necessity, Mr Ablakwa cited the former administration’s “failed ecosystem” as an example.
“Whistleblowers have faced attacks for the past eight years. Many people were afraid to report corruption due to intimidation and a lack of response.
“The outgoing President earned the nickname of a ‘clearing agent,’ infamously absolving appointees without thorough investigations,” according to him.
He cited incidents such as investigative journalist Manasseh Azure’s exile and the difficulties faced by previous Special Prosecutors as proof of a system that failed to protect whistleblowers or successfully combat corruption.
“People trust the incoming administration and perceive this as a secure way to transmit information. They know they will be safeguarded, and their complaints will not be ignored in a rush to clear wrongdoers,” he stated.
A rejection of witch-hunting.
In response to fears about possible witch-hunting, Mr. Ablakwa was adamant.
“No, not at all. This is not a witch-hunting exercise. If anyone approaches this with ulterior motives—aside from strong proof and realities of corruption—they will be exposed. Their findings will not stand the test of time, and no real Attorney General will consider such work,” he stated.
He also stated that people who have served with integrity have nothing to fear.
“Those who have engaged in state capture, plundered resources, or supervised the massive dissipation of public funds should, however, have legitimate concerns,” he told CNN.
Mr. Ablakwa raised specific examples of suspected mismanagement and questioned the location of public cash.
“Where’s the $12 million from the Pwalugu Dam fiasco? Where’s our $12 million from the Agyapa Royalties saga? “These are legitimate questions that must be answered,” he insisted.
Mr. Ablakwa continued by adding that the ORAL Team is the result of the public’s desire for accountability and openness.
“This is an opportunity to reestablish trust in government and show that corruption will not be tolerated.
“We are determined to ensure that every case is based on credible evidence and that justice prevails,” he told reporters.