Chief of Akyem Muoso, Osabarima Dr. Owusu Beyeeman, has criticised Ghana’s long-standing political approach to fighting corruption, describing it as ineffective and dishonest.
According to him, successive governments from the era of Kwame Nkrumah, through the military regimes to the Fourth Republic, have merely toyed with the conscience of citizens while corruption continues to thrive.
He said corruption has become such a sensitive topic in Ghana that many traditional leaders shy away from commenting on, for fear of incurring the displeasure of the political class.
However, he insisted that the country cannot make meaningful progress unless corruption is confronted head-on.
“The era where people appear as powerful angels when they are in government, but suddenly become thieves the moment they leave power must stop,” he declared, stressing that regime changes have historically come with waves of corruption exposé, a trend that predates the Fourth Republic.
Speaking at the maiden Yensom Festival of the chiefs and people of Akyem Muoso, Osabarima Dr. Owusu Beyeeman called on state anti-corruption agencies and investigative bodies to operate boldly and impartially.
He argued that institutions mandated to tackle corruption must act decisively, regardless of who is involved.
“If a government official commits an offence while in office, the institutions responsible for investigating and prosecuting corruption cases must be seen taking action,” he said.
Turning his attention to illegal mining, he warned that Ghana faces a bleak future if galamsey is not addressed with urgency and courage.
According to him, the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining could force the country to import water and food in the near future.
He referenced a recent incident involving the Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), who, together with heavily armed military and national security officers, had to flee during a tour of galamsey areas in the Ashanti Region.
“The solution lies with the government, which holds the power of the state. A more radical and ruthless action is required to end this menace,” he stated.
The Muosohene also condemned the increasing gangsterism associated with illegal mining activities, warning that if not stopped, it may soon evolve into widespread vigilantism with dire consequences for national security.
He dismissed claims of a lack of jobs for the youth, challenging financiers of illegal mining to channel their resources into productive ventures that support agriculture rather than destroy the environment.
“I vehemently disagree with the assertion of no jobs for the youth. Financiers of galamsey must invest in equipment that supports and improves farming,” he emphasised.
The Yensom Festival, celebrated for the first time this year, is a homecoming initiative aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and driving strategic development in Akyem Muoso.
Each year, citizens, both home and abroad, are expected to convene to assess development, reflect on progress and plan for the years ahead.
As part of the celebrations, a ten-year development plan for the town was unveiled. The plan identifies the immediate needs of Muoso and outlines a roadmap for development through local initiatives and self-help projects.
The festival also witnessed the launch of the Muoso History Book. Osabarima Dr. Owusu Beyeeman explained that the absence of a codified document on the Muoso stool’s history had allowed distortions, misinformation and deliberate adulteration of facts.
This vacuum, he said, often complicated adjudication processes concerning the stool.
Compiled by the State Book after extensive research and consultations, the Muoso History Book aims to provide accurate information, deepen knowledge, and firmly position Akyem Muoso within the Akyem Abuakwa State.
It is also expected to serve as a primary resource for investors, researchers, academicians, and the judicial committees of the traditional council and the House of Chiefs.
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