The controversy surrounding President-elect John Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loots (ORAL) committee has deepened, with a senior member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) dismissing the initiative as unlawful and unconstitutional.
Abena Osei Asare, the Member of Parliament for Atiwa East and Minister of State at the Finance Ministry, has become the latest NPP stalwart to criticize the committee, which aims to recover assets allegedly looted by public officials.
According to Asare, the committee’s establishment is unnecessary, as there are already state agencies responsible for supervising corruption-related issues.
She questioned the basis for the creation of the five-member committee, chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and expressed concerns about the potential consequences of its findings.
Asare’s remarks were made during her thank-you tour in the Eastern region, where she acknowledged the goodwill of her constituents despite the NPP’s loss in the 2024 election.
She emphasized the party’s acceptance of the election results and expressed confidence in their ability to bounce back.
The ORAL committee, however, has been designed to operate on a non-partisan basis, with no associated budget or financial burden. Its members are working pro bono, with the goal of ensuring accountability and fairness.
Despite this, Asare remains skeptical about the committee’s legitimacy and effectiveness.
In contrast, some former NPP members have expressed support for the ORAL committee. Edward Ennin, the former Obuasi East NPP MP, has stated his willingness to provide evidence on looted assets, while Nana Obiri Boahen, the former NPP General Secretary, has commended the initiative.
The differing opinions within the NPP highlight the complexity of the issue and the need for a nuanced approach.
While some members are concerned about the committee’s potential overreach, others see it as an opportunity to address corruption and promote accountability.
The ORAL committee’s success will depend on its ability to navigate these complexities and build trust with all stakeholders.
By operating in a transparent and impartial manner, the committee can help to restore confidence in the government’s ability to tackle corruption.