Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has announced plans to introduce a Lifestyle Audit Act, aimed at curbing corruption and ensuring accountability among public officials. The proposed legislation will empower state institutions to investigate individuals suspected of acquiring unexplained wealth, marking a significant step in Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts2.

Purpose of the Lifestyle Audit Act

The bill seeks to:

• Enhance accountability by scrutinizing the financial activities of public servants and politically exposed persons.

• Deter corruption by preventing individuals from flaunting ill-gotten wealth.

• Strengthen governance by ensuring transparency in asset declarations and financial disclosures.

Bagbin emphasized that the law would put an end to impunity, ensuring that individuals who amass wealth through questionable means are held accountable. He noted that public trust in institutions is waning globally, making transparency a crucial factor in governance.

Key Stakeholders and Support

The initiative has gained traction among senior government officials and civil society organizations, including the Vice President, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, and the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). The OSP has proposed constitutional reforms to allow lifestyle audits and asset seizures, even without a criminal conviction.

Bagbin stressed the importance of collaboration among anti-corruption institutions, urging them to work together rather than engage in turf wars. He highlighted the National Integrity Award scheme, a recommendation under the National Anti-Corruption Action Plan (NACAP), as a complementary effort to promote ethical governance.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

The announcement has sparked public debate, with many citizens welcoming the move as a bold step toward fighting corruption. Others have raised concerns about potential misuse of the law for political targeting. Parliament is expected to finalize the draft bill in the coming months, with consultations involving key stakeholders to ensure fair implementation.

The Lifestyle Audit Act represents a major shift in Ghana’s governance framework, reinforcing efforts to combat corruption and promote accountability. As discussions progress, the bill’s effectiveness will depend on transparent enforcement and institutional cooperation.