Former Auditor-General Daniel Domelevo has praised President John Mahama for the firm action taken against public officials who failed to declare their assets and liabilities within the constitutionally mandated period.

Speaking in an interview on Joy FM's Newsnight on Monday, May 5, he said it marked a significant turning point in Ghana’s governance culture, describing the move as “a good step in the right direction.”

He noted that the lack of consequences in the past had bred impunity, pointing out that previous administrations merely reminded appointees to comply without imposing penalties.

• Read also: Asset Declaration: Non-compliant appointees lose 3 months’ salary to Mahama Cares Fund – Presidency

"I'm very happy hearing what the President has done or is doing. For the first time in the history of our Constitution, the assets and liabilities declaration is being taken seriously," he said.

This comes after President John Dramani Mahama took action against government appointees who failed to meet the March 31 deadline for asset declaration.

The president has ordered that the said officers forfeit three months of their salary and donate the amount to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund. He has also threatened to dismiss appointees who fail to do so after May 6, 2025

While Mr Domelevo had earlier advocated for outright dismissals, he acknowledged President Mahama's decision to "temper justice with mercy" by opting for salary forfeiture and issuing a stern warning of future dismissals for repeated offenses.

"The President didn’t stop there. He made it clear that any repeat offense could lead to dismissal. So, I say thumbs up — or kudos — to His Excellency," he stated.

When asked if forfeiting three months’ salary was enough punishment, Mr Domelevo responded: “It is. Losing that amount is significant. The most important thing is that the law is finally being enforced — and visibly so.”

He further urged the President to ensure compliance, stressing that only consistent enforcement will embed accountability into Ghana’s political culture.