Bagbin Urges African Lawmakers to Restore Public Trust in Fight Against Corruption
By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh
Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has urged members of the African Parliamentarians Network Against Corruption (APNAC) to make the restoration of public confidence a top priority in efforts to combat corruption across the continent.
Speaking at the opening of the 9th Biennial Conference of APNAC in Accra, Mr. Bagbin stressed that democracy cannot thrive without public trust, adding that African nations must establish strong systems and institutions capable of tackling corruption decisively.
“Without trust, democracy itself will not stand. We must build systems and institutions that deal decisively with corruption,” he stated.
The four-day conference, themed “Strengthening Accountability for Sustainable Development in Africa,” brought together lawmakers, anti-corruption advocates, and development partners from across the continent to exchange ideas and share best practices in advancing Africa’s anti-corruption agenda.
Delegates discussed the devastating effects of corruption on national development, including its erosion of public faith in democratic institutions and its diversion of resources meant for social and economic progress.
Participants also highlighted the need for stronger oversight mechanisms, legislative reforms, and enhanced regional collaboration to effectively address corruption and promote transparency in governance.
Mr. Bagbin emphasized that accountability is not merely a political choice but a prerequisite for sustainable development.
He underscored that Africa’s progress hinges on the integrity of its leaders and their commitment to managing public resources responsibly for the benefit of all.
