Manhyia South Member of Parliament, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has supported calls for a public inquiry into the alleged Aksa Energy bribery scandal. He stated the process would expose and publicly shame culpable individuals. This inquiry would also provide an opportunity for innocent persons linked to the matter to clear their names.
The lawmaker argued that a broader inquiry would uncover circumstances allowing similar incidents to recur. He believes it will establish why such cases happen repeatedly. The inquiry could then provide recommendations to prevent future occurrences. Publicly exposing those found culpable would deter others and strengthen public confidence in accountability efforts.
This development follows the conviction of former Goldman Sachs employee Asante Kwaku Berko in the United States. Berko facilitated bribe payments to Ghanaian officials between 2014 and 2016. These payments were connected to an emergency power agreement involving the Government of Ghana and Turkish energy company Aksa Energy. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for a comprehensive investigation to establish the full circumstances of the alleged bribery.
Mr. Baffour Awuah made these comments during an interview with Citi FM on Thursday, August 13, 2026. His remarks align with the NPP's stance that a thorough investigation is crucial. Such an inquiry would determine whether other individuals were involved in the alleged corruption. It would also help identify systemic weaknesses that allowed these payments to occur.
The alleged bribery scandal highlights ongoing concerns about corruption within Ghana's public sector. Transparency International's 2023 Corruption Perception Index ranked Ghana 43rd out of 180 countries, indicating persistent challenges. Public inquiries serve as a vital mechanism for addressing such issues, promoting accountability, and restoring public trust. The outcome of this inquiry could influence future foreign investment decisions and Ghana's standing in international business circles.
This inquiry could also impact how Ghana structures its energy contracts and procurement processes. The government has invested significantly in improving energy infrastructure, with projects often involving international partners. Ensuring transparency in these deals is paramount for Ghana's economic stability and development. The scandal underscores the need for robust oversight and stringent anti-corruption measures in large-scale public contracts.
Decision-makers and markets will closely watch the progress and findings of any public inquiry. A transparent and effective investigation could bolster investor confidence in Ghana's commitment to good governance. Conversely, any perceived lack of thoroughness or accountability could deter future foreign direct investment. The inquiry's recommendations will be crucial for strengthening Ghana's institutional frameworks against corruption. This will help prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure public funds are used for national development.