Kissi Agyebeng stated he initially hesitated to become the Special Prosecutor in Ghana. He explained during a recent Constitutional Day Lecture that, unlike others, he never sought or requested the position. The job was simply presented to him rather than something he pursued actively. He accepted the role despite these reservations because of his commitment to improving Ghana.
Taking the position required significant personal changes for Agyebeng. He described himself as previously enjoying outdoor activities and walking as part of his lifestyle. Many normal activities he valued became impossible after accepting the role. These personal sacrifices represent just one aspect of what he gave up when entering public service to combat corruption throughout Ghana.
Agyebeng noted a disconnect between public statements and actions regarding corruption. Citizens express support for anti-corruption efforts, yet resistance occurs whenever actual enforcement happens. This pushback manifests as sponsored attacks against him and harmful publications. The dangers extend beyond verbal threats to actual attempts against his life, creating extreme security concerns for him and his staff.
The Special Prosecutor mentioned gaining numerous enemies daily through his work. He characterized the position as thankless and bringing him face-to-face with disappointing human behavior. Despite these challenges, Agyebeng sees potential for progress through structural reforms. He believes constitutional protection for his office would help maintain its independence from political interference.
Agyebeng emphasized looking beyond his tenure toward lasting institutional strength. He recommended incorporating the Office of the Special Prosecutor into the constitution to ensure its permanence. Additional proposals included adding anti-corruption studies to educational curricula and establishing specialized courts focused exclusively on corruption cases. These measures aim to make corrupt practices riskier and more costly for perpetrators.
Taking the position required significant personal changes for Agyebeng. He described himself as previously enjoying outdoor activities and walking as part of his lifestyle. Many normal activities he valued became impossible after accepting the role. These personal sacrifices represent just one aspect of what he gave up when entering public service to combat corruption throughout Ghana.
Agyebeng noted a disconnect between public statements and actions regarding corruption. Citizens express support for anti-corruption efforts, yet resistance occurs whenever actual enforcement happens. This pushback manifests as sponsored attacks against him and harmful publications. The dangers extend beyond verbal threats to actual attempts against his life, creating extreme security concerns for him and his staff.
The Special Prosecutor mentioned gaining numerous enemies daily through his work. He characterized the position as thankless and bringing him face-to-face with disappointing human behavior. Despite these challenges, Agyebeng sees potential for progress through structural reforms. He believes constitutional protection for his office would help maintain its independence from political interference.
Agyebeng emphasized looking beyond his tenure toward lasting institutional strength. He recommended incorporating the Office of the Special Prosecutor into the constitution to ensure its permanence. Additional proposals included adding anti-corruption studies to educational curricula and establishing specialized courts focused exclusively on corruption cases. These measures aim to make corrupt practices riskier and more costly for perpetrators.
