Following recent activities by Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), concerns have emerged from both public officials and citizens over individuals who have been publicly named but not yet formally prosecuted.
Among those calling for swift legal action are former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo and Ghanaian comedian and social commentator Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM).
They argue that the slow pace of prosecutions undermines the credibility of the initiative and erodes public trust.
In response to these concerns, GhanaWeb TV took to the streets of Accra to gauge public opinion.
While views were mixed, some Ghanaians expressed frustration, insisting that once individuals are found guilty, they should be arrested and jailed without delay.
Others, however, emphasised the need for due process, arguing that being named in a report does not automatically equate to guilt. They stressed that prosecutions must be evidence-based to ensure fairness and uphold the rule of law.
”I wouldn’t say ORAL is either good or bad. As long as it operates within the bounds of the constitution, that’s fine. When it should take effect depends on the leadership and what the constitution allows. Democracy is expensive and as citizens, we need to exercise patience,” one of the respondents told GhanaWeb TV.
He added, “You can’t just arrest anyone. It must be done according to the constitution. If there’s evidence of embezzlement or corruption, then yes prosecutions should follow, but still within legal bounds. We cannot dictate to the law. The law is the law.”
Another respondent added, “The money belongs to the country, not individuals. So, for me, I believe those implicated should be arrested and the money recovered for the nation.
”We expected results from ORAL within three months, but it’s been almost a year and we have seen very little. Personally, I suspect political interference—you wash my hand, I wash yours.”
Another added, “Politicians may fear that if they prosecute others today, they themselves could be prosecuted tomorrow when they’re out of power. That is why I believe it is a matter of political will, they are simply not ready to act,” another respondent added his voice.
”That said, I think the government is doing its best by going after the people, even if arrests haven’t happened yet.”
Another said, “Investigating them is a step forward. You can’t just accuse someone of stealing and throw them in jail—you need evidence. I believe they’re still gathering that.
“It’s only been about nine or ten months. That is not too long. I think we should give them up to a year. If after that there’s still no progress, then we can start asking questions. But for now, it is too early.”
”We’re not in support of corruption. We speak against it every day. That’s why I believe those involved should be arrested. That is my opinion.”
Watch the full views of the respondents on GhanaWeb TV below:
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