Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Forestry Commission, Elikem Kotoko, has cautioned that no government appointee or public official under President John Dramani Mahama will be shielded from accountability if found abusing power or engaging in corruption.
According to him, recent developments in court should serve as a strong warning to both opposition figures and serving government officials that the current administration is serious about integrity and discipline.
“This should serve as a strong warning not only to the opposition but even to those of us in government, that if you dare abuse the position given to you today, you will be held accountable, and you may even be dealt with more ruthlessly than what we see today,” he said.
He described President Mahama as a leader guided by incorruptible values and a deep commitment to Ghana’s progress. He urged all political appointees to live by those same principles and reflect the President’s example in their conduct.
“If you are an appointee of President Mahama, live by the very dictates that he reflects; incorruptible, disciplined, and always putting Ghana first,” he emphasized.
He added that the Attorney General’s recent work in ongoing prosecutions demonstrates the government’s resolve to pursue justice without fear or favour, stressing that justice must not be rushed but done right.
Mr. Kotoko acknowledged that public scepticism is justified, given what he described as a “highly compromised judiciary” over the past decade. He, however, assured Ghanaians that the current administration is working to restore trust in the justice system.
“It is normal for people to be sceptical because of what we’ve witnessed over the years. But this government is committed to doing things right and rebuilding confidence in our institutions,” he said.
Responding to concerns that some investigations and prosecutions appear delayed, he explained that the government’s approach is methodical, not complacent: “The wheels of justice grind slowly, but they must grind surely,” echoing the Attorney General’s assertion that strong, watertight cases are essential for credible outcomes.
Mr. Kotoko urged the public to remain patient, saying that the Mahama government is delivering on its promises progressively across different sectors.
“Every promise cannot be fulfilled at once. But we are taking things one step at a time, building, fixing, and restoring integrity,” he added.
He noted that this period should mark a renewal of ethical leadership and respect for public trust.
