The multifaceted faces of corruption: a societal parasite

By Prof. Samuel Lartey

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Corruption, an age-old societal parasite, thrives in the shadows, perpetuating inequality, draining resources, and eroding trust in institutions. In Ghana, it is a pervasive challenge that transcends social, business, and political boundaries, infiltrating the very systems designed to uphold integrity.

This feature delves into the historical roots of corruption, its various manifestations, and its impact on society while shedding light on how individuals and institutions can unknowingly become complicit. By tracing its origins and examining its guises, we can begin to understand how to confront this insidious enemy and chart a path toward a more transparent and equitable society.

The Roots of Corruption

The term “corruption” derives from the Latin word corruptus, meaning “broken” or “spoiled.” Its usage dates back to medieval Europe, where it described moral decay and the abuse of power. In governance systems from the Roman Empire to the Middle Ages, corruption was often tied to bribery, favoritism, and exploitation.

In Ghana, corruption has historical roots in pre-colonial systems, where leaders sometimes exploited communal resources for personal benefit. The post-independence period saw the entrenchment of systemic corruption.

Allegations of graft and mismanagement plagued Ghana’s governance, from the era of Kwame Nkrumah to present-day administrations, stalling development and eroding public trust.

How Corruption Steals Wealth

Corruption siphons public funds into private pockets, leaving vital sectors underfunded. The Ghana Integrity Initiative estimates that Ghana loses approximately GH?13 billion annually to corruption. For perspective, this sum exceeds the total annual expenditure on primary healthcare.

A striking example is the 2020 COVID-19 expenditure. While Ghana allocated GH?3 billion to combat the pandemic, allegations of inflated contracts and unaccounted funds cast a shadow over the effort. Similarly, the Auditor-General’s 2022 report revealed mismanagement of over GH?17 billion in public funds, representing lost opportunities for societal improvement.

These diversions have tangible effects: dilapidated schools, poorly equipped hospitals, and crumbling infrastructure. The wealth stolen through corruption could transform the lives of millions, yet it remains concentrated in the hands of a few.

Redistribution of Worth

Corruption doesn’t merely rob society; it redistributes wealth unjustly, perpetuating inequality. In Ghana, “pay-to-play” politics ensures that financial clout, rather than merit, often determines access to power.

Aspiring politicians spend exorbitantly on campaigns, some up to GH?2 million, creating a vicious cycle where elected officials feel compelled to recoup their investments through corrupt practices.

Businesses, too, are affected. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which constitute about 70% of Ghana’s GDP, struggle to compete as larger firms use bribes and political connections to secure contracts. This uneven playing field discourages innovation and growth, trapping SMEs in a cycle of stagnation.

The Masks of Corruption

Corruption is a master of disguise. Nepotism is often rationalized as a familial obligation, while embezzlement is cloaked as administrative overhead. In Ghana, the informal practice of “dashing”  small payments to expedite services, is so normalized that many fail to recognize it as corruption.

Institutional corruption further complicates the problem. In 2019, exam leaks in Ghana’s educational system exposed officials who sold answers to students, undermining the integrity of education.

Even well-meaning initiatives, such as donor-funded poverty alleviation projects, are not immune. In 2021, discrepancies in the allocation of a $500 million World Bank infrastructure fund raised concerns about mismanagement.

The Socioeconomic Costs

The consequences of corruption are far-reaching. A 2022 Afrobarometer survey found that 75% of Ghanaians believe corruption is worsening. It erodes trust in institutions, discourages foreign investment, and exacerbates poverty. For example, rural communities often face bribery in accessing healthcare, with 60% of households reportedly paying bribes for basic medical services, according to the Ghana Statistical Service.

Corruption’s impact is also felt in global rankings. Ghana’s position on Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index has fluctuated, reflecting the persistent struggle to combat this societal ill.

Confronting Corruption: A Way Forward

Fighting corruption requires a collective, multifaceted approach. Strengthening legal frameworks, such as empowering the Special Prosecutor’s Office established in 2018, is crucial. Whistleblower protections must be enforced, and judicial independence safeguarded to ensure accountability.

Civil society has a role to play in exposing and addressing corruption. Campaigns like “Corruption Watch” and initiatives that promote ethical leadership can inspire long-term change. Education is another powerful tool. Instilling ethical values in schools and workplaces can create a generation less tolerant of corruption.

Technological interventions also hold promise. Digital platforms for public service delivery, such as Ghana’s E-Government program, can reduce opportunities for bribery and improve transparency.

Evils and Benefits of Corruption

While corruption may offer short-term benefits to individuals within the system, its long-term effects are overwhelmingly negative. It undermines social equity, economic development, and institutional trust, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inefficiency. Combatting corruption requires prioritizing transparency, accountability, and ethical governance to ensure a fairer and more sustainable society.

Evils of Corruption:

1. Economic Drain:

Diverts public funds meant for development into private pockets, reducing resources for essential services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

Stunts economic growth by discouraging foreign investment and undermining market competitiveness.

2. Inequality:

Redistributes wealth unjustly, allowing the powerful to amass riches at the expense of the poor.

Perpetuates social and economic disparities, marginalizing vulnerable groups.

3. Erosion of Trust:

Undermines public confidence in institutions, governance, and the rule of law.

Fosters cynicism and apathy among citizens, weakening civic engagement.

4. Moral Decay:

Normalizes unethical behavior, creating a culture of dishonesty and self-interest.

Compromises the integrity of institutions, including education, healthcare, and law enforcement.

5. Stifling Innovation:

Favors entities that engage in corrupt practices, sidelining merit and creativity.

Discourages entrepreneurship and fair competition.

6. Worsening Poverty:

Forces citizens, particularly in low-income communities, to pay bribes for basic services.

Exacerbates inequality and sustains cycles of poverty.

 

Perceived Benefits of Corruption:

1. Expedited Processes:

In corrupt systems, bribes may “fast-track” services or approvals, bypassing bureaucratic inefficiencies.

2. Short-Term Gains for Individuals:

Provides financial benefits to those involved in corrupt activities.

Enables some individuals to access opportunities otherwise unavailable to them.

3. Informal Redistribution of Wealth:

Some argue that corruption redistributes resources to lower levels of society, albeit informally and inefficiently.

4. Stability in Dysfunctional Systems:

In highly corrupt systems, bribes can serve as a “lubricant” to keep essential services functioning.

Conclusion

Corruption is a multifaceted and deeply entrenched problem that thrives on greed, complacency, and systemic flaws. In Ghana, its impact is felt across all sectors, draining resources, perpetuating inequality, and stifling development. Yet, as history shows, corruption is not invincible.

By recognizing its many faces, addressing its root causes, and fostering a culture of accountability, Ghana can begin to dismantle the systems that allow corruption to thrive. As Kofi Annan aptly stated, “If corruption is a disease, transparency is a central part of its cure.” For Ghana to realize its potential as a prosperous and equitable nation, transparency and collective responsibility must guide the way forward.

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