Accra: Mr. Donatus Akamugri Atanga, the Upper East Regional Minister, has urged technocrats in various departments and agencies to refrain from aiding politicians in corrupt activities. He highlighted the widespread perception of politicians being corrupt and pointed out that technocrats often play a significant role in facilitating these corrupt practices. "We eye only politicians when we talk of corruption, but the technocrats are also part. We are not the only corrupt people; you are also corrupt," Mr. Atanga stated during a meeting of the Regional Co-ordinating Council (RCC) attended by municipal and district co-ordinating directors, heads of public sector institutions and agencies, members of the Regional Security Council (REGSEC), and key development partners.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Atanga emphasized that technocrats are often the ones who introduce politicians to corrupt practices. He explained, "You show us the tricks to get corrupt, you show politicians how to manipulate documents. The politician doesn't enter any documents. They are assisted by the technocrats to steal." He urged technocrats in the region to resist any temptations to assist politicians in engaging in corrupt activities.
The Minister also advised municipal and district chief executives in the region to avoid actions that could harm society for personal gain. He assured that no political leader would divert resources meant for the development of the region. Mr. Atanga highlighted the significant responsibilities that come with leadership and called for a renewed commitment to serve with integrity, passion, and urgency.
Mr. Atanga acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence that with the partnership and support of technocrats, the region could be transformed into a more peaceful and prosperous area. As the Chairman of REGSEC, he underscored the importance of peace for the region's education, healthcare, investment, and development. He called for collaboration with security agencies, traditional authorities, youth groups, and civil society to address security challenges, such as land and chieftaincy disputes, mining conflicts, and cross-border concerns, and to consolidate peace across the region.
