Lambussie NCCE engages stakeholders on rule of law, anti-corruption fight

The Lambussie District Directorate of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) recently convened a meeting with women groups, traditional leaders, and faith-based organisations. The event aimed to deepen their knowledge of the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts. This gathering was organized alongside support from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and co-funded by the European Union (EU) under the "Civic Engagement on the Rule of Law and Fight Against Corruption" project.

The primary objectives were to enhance participants' understanding of legal protections for reporting corruption, as well as share experiences from past engagements. The NCCE, in collaboration with its partners, sought to bolster participants' abilities, particularly women, to uphold rule of law principles, resist corruption, and promote accountability and ethical practices within their communities.

During the forum, Amatus Taalar, the Lambussie District Officer in charge of the NCCE, stressed that adhering to the law and practicing ethical conduct was essential to combating corruption in Ghana. He highlighted that the rule of law serves as the foundation for justice, equity, and national development. Taalar emphasized that fair application of the law without discrimination would help reduce corruption and empower citizens to protect their rights and promote development.

Lambussie District Police Commander, Andrews Asiedu Banafi, addressed attendees in leadership roles, urging them to model ethical behavior and accountability. He emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness to maintain public trust. Banafi advised women leaders to exhibit integrity and equity in their workplaces and to show appreciation to their subordinates as a crucial step in the fight against corruption.

Participants emphasized their appreciation for the NCCE and its partners for facilitating these discussions, which have enhanced their understanding of the rule of law and their roles in corruption prevention. One participant, Madam Tienaah Evelyn, a hairdresser, expressed that the previous session enlightened her on recognizing corruption in various settings and called for further awareness programs targeting women in the community.

She noted ongoing challenges such as fear of victimization, limited knowledge of reporting mechanisms, and cultural norms that discourage speaking out against wrongdoing. Another attendee, Kuoro Tongboro Domorkanor Adams Welleh, Divisional Chief of the Dindee Traditional Area, called for increased sensitization on reporting mechanisms, the Right to Information Act, and the Whistleblower Act, particularly concerning criminal and theft cases.