By Regina Benneh, GNA
Sunyani, (Bono) July 24, GNA – Mr Peter Kwabena Gyasi, the Deputy Bono Regional Director of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has urged Ghanaians to continue to be law abiding citizens.
He advised those occupying leadership positions to be ethical, deepen accountability and transparency to maintain public trust and confidence.
Mr Gyasi gave the advice when speaking at a forum on accountability oragnised by the commission in Sunyani, saying that respect for the law and ethical conduct were critical in consolidating the gains of the nation’s democracy.
The forum WAS on the theme: “Civic Engagement on the Rule of Law and the Fight Against Corruption.”
The forum was organised by the NCCE, in collaboration with the European Union and the GIZ, and it was attended by student leaders from tertiary institutions in the region.
Mr Gyasi noted that rule of law provided the foundation for justice, equity and accelerated national development.
He said laws ought to be applied fairly, devoid of discrimination, and that law enforcement agencies ought to be allowed to work independently.
“When leaders and citizens respect the law, it creates an environment where rights are protected and development thrive,” Mr Gyasi stated.
He said that disregarding the rule of law threatened and undermined democracy and eroded public confidence as well.
Mr Gyasi said integrity, accountability, transparency, respect for human rights and the prudent use of public resources were key ethical leadership standards.
He urged public office holders to be exemplary by declaring their assets, and guard against conflict of interest, submitting themselves to scrutiny and oversight.
Mr Gyasi called for intensified civic education and training for public officials on ethics, anti-corruption, and service delivery to strengthen institutional performance.
He said the NCCE remained dedicated to educating citizens on their rights and responsibilities, urging effective collaboration between the government, the civil society, media and traditional authorities in promoting the rule of law and ethical conduct.
Also, upholding the rule of law and ethical leadership “isn’t the job of the government alone”, but required the commitment of all Ghanaians.
Professor Simon Abugri, the Dean of students of the University of Energy and Natural Resources, urged the students to take advantage of capacity building programmes and build themselves and thereby enrich their curriculum vitae for job opportunities.
He urged them to remain studious and focused, building themselves to become useful leaders in the future.
GNA
Edited by Dennis Peprah/Benjamin Mensah
Reporter: Regina Benneh
Reporter’s email address: [email protected]