By Benjamin Akoto
Sunyani (Bono), May 6, GNA – Weak adherence to ethical standards and limited public understanding of accountability remain persistent governance challenges that impede public trust and holistic national development,
Miss Cynthia Anima Boadu, the Bono Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), has said.
She noted that ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability are critical to strengthening democratic governance and sustaining public trust in state institutions.
Ms Boadu made these remarks during an educational engagement with Civil Education Clubs established by the NCCE in tertiary institutions. The event was held at the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani.
The programme formed part of the NCCE’s “Civic Engagement on the Rule of Law and the Fight Against Corruption” project, co-funded by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and the European Union (EU).
The initiative seeks to equip young people with practical knowledge of the rule of law, civic rights, and key legal frameworks, including the Whistleblower Act, while highlighting their role in promoting transparency and accountability.
Ms Boadu explained that as emerging leaders and decision-makers, the engagement was designed to deepen discussions on ethical leadership, conflict of interest, and influence peddling. She added that it reinforces respect for the rule of law and public accountability standards and is expected to nurture a new generation of youth ambassadors committed to promoting integrity and transparency in institutions and communities.
Mr Abdul Wawood, the Bono Regional Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), took participants through issues relating to conflict of interest, its implications, as well as abuse of office and influence peddling.
He cited examples such as awarding contracts to businesses owned by family members or associates as acts of favouritism. He added that holding dual roles and misusing confidential information for personal or financial gain also constitute abuse of public office.
Mr Wawood advised students to manage such situations through full disclosure, recusal from decision-making processes, or, in severe cases, divestment of personal interests.
He emphasised that the rule of law remains a fundamental constitutional principle that underpins administrative justice and serves as a critical restraint on the exercise of power.
GNA
Edited by Dennis Peprah/Audrey Dekalu
Reporter: Benjamin Akoto
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