Renowned economist Dr. Ishmael Yamson has called for sweeping reforms across Ghana’s public and private institutions, arguing that stronger accountability systems and tougher sanctions are needed to combat corruption and improve service delivery.
According to him, the country cannot achieve meaningful development unless institutions are restructured to ensure that misconduct attracts swift consequences while excellence is rewarded.
Speaking at the launch of the book Citizen Experience: A Reset for Superior Public and Civil Service Delivery, Dr. Yamson expressed concern that corruption remains deeply entrenched despite Ghana’s strong religious culture.
He noted that practices such as bribery and extortion are often concealed under terms like “appreciation” and “facilitation,” making them socially acceptable in some circles.
He stressed that addressing the problem requires leaders to openly acknowledge the country’s challenges rather than avoid difficult conversations for political convenience.
“A problem you cannot name, you cannot fix,” he said, adding that sustainable change can only be achieved through systems that make accountability unavoidable.
Dr. Yamson further advocated public performance measurement, meaningful incentives for high-performing workers and institutions, and strict sanctions for misconduct.
“Performance measurement must be public. Consequences must be real. Rewards for excellence must be compelling enough to genuinely motivate. Sanctions for misconduct must be swift and certain enough to genuinely deter. Accountability as a public event cannot produce a transformation within,” he added.
He maintained that accountability should not be selective or occasional but must be firmly embedded within the structures of both public and private institutions.
The book, authored by Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and Professor Robert E. Hinson, promotes a citizen-centred approach to public sector reform, with a focus on rebuilding trust, improving efficiency and enhancing service delivery across government institutions.
