Prince Kofi Amoabeng says Ghana’s governance challenges stem from weak enforcement systems, arguing that successful nations enforce discipline without fear or favoritism.
He referenced global examples of strict leadership in an interview on Channel One TV monitored by MyNewsGh.
He mentioned Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, saying, “He says he’s taking his people from point A to point B… if there are about 1,000 pulling against what he wants to do… kill them.”
He clarified that he was highlighting firmness, not brutality.
He noted that while some countries impose extreme penalties such as execution for high-level corruption, the underlying message is deterrence.“In some countries like China, the punishment for certain types of corruption is death sentence. They want to use that as a deterrent,” Amoabeng said.
He argued that real leadership requires uncompromising enforcement. “Sanctioning is a big part of leadership. You should be able to sanction… even if it’s your father,” he stated.
Amoabeng contrasted this with Africa, where he believes powerful individuals often interfere with law enforcement. He cited a recent illegal mining report, noting, “Chiefs and politicians are interfering… when we try and do the work… a chief or a politician will call.”
He maintains that Africa struggles because leaders are unable to apply rules consistently.
“You must be ruthless… applying the institutions and the laws,” he explained.
Amoabeng also criticised the short political cycle, arguing that frequent elections weaken discipline.“If I have to pay people to vote for me… how on earth am I going to discipline them?” he asked.
