The Agbogbomefia of the Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV, has lamented the destructive impact of corruption on Ghana’s development, describing it as one of the greatest obstacles to national progress.
Addressing thousands of celebrants at this year’s Asogli Yam Festival in Ho on Sunday, October 5, Togbe Afede underscored the urgent need for honesty, transparency, and integrity in public and private leadership. He stressed that truthfulness must remain a guiding principle if Ghana is to achieve peace, unity, and prosperity.
“Corruption has been a stumbling block to our development, and it is the result of our inability to hold on to the path of truth, the path of strictest honesty,” he declared.
The revered chief noted that dishonesty at multiple levels of governance and society weakens institutions, diverts resources meant for development, and perpetuates inequality. He urged both political leaders and traditional authorities to lead by example in upholding accountability, as citizens naturally emulate the values modeled by those in positions of influence.
Togbe Afede emphasized that the theme for this year’s festival — centred on honesty, unity, peace, and prosperity — reflects the urgent need to build a just and transparent society that places national interest above personal gain.
“Together in unity and prosperity, we build a just, peaceful, prosperous nation,” he affirmed, calling for collective responsibility in the fight against corruption.
His remarks add to the growing chorus of voices demanding stronger anti-corruption measures, institutional reforms, and a cultural shift towards integrity as Ghana continues to grapple with the negative effects of graft on economic growth and social development.
