Former Auditor-General of Ghana, Daniel Yaw Domelevo has emphasised the need for penalties to ensure compliance with asset declaration laws for public officeholders.

According to him, “The best penalty is that if you fail to declare your assets before entering public office and are caught, you should be removed from office. From my point of view, occupying that office without declaring assets is unconstitutional,” he said.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show during a discussion on asset declaration, Mr Domelevo stressed that any new legislation under the new government must include strict enforcement measures, physical verification of assets, and consequences for non-compliance.

“I am aware the Conduct of Public Office Holders Bill has some provisions to that effect. If it does not, then we are doing a useless job passing a new bill,” he stated. He argued that declarations must go beyond forms, requiring verification of the physical existence of declared assets and liabilities.

“When you borrow money, the loan agreements and other documents should be available to support the declaration made,” he added.

He also emphasised the need for public disclosure of asset declarations, arguing that it would enhance accountability.

“If the records are made public, everyone can help police the abuse of public office or funds. Otherwise, you make the Auditor-General a god who only verifies what is submitted,” he explained.

President John Mahama, after swearing in some ministers of state on Wednesday, urged them to declare their assets and liabilities.