Former Member of Parliament for Sekondi, Andrew Egyapa Mercer, has weighed in on the unfolding National Service Scheme (NSS) scandal, acknowledging that even well-intentioned governments may harbor corrupt individuals who must face consequences.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile, the former deputy minister offered a balanced perspective on the GH¢548 million ghost worker scandal currently rocking the NSS.
“I had the privilege of serving in the Akufo-Addo administration. I think a government made of good men, well-intentioned, came with a clear objective of serving our country,” Mercer stated.
“But I recognize that in every house, there’s the Mensah and so you may find bad nuts in government.”
His comments come as the Attorney General’s office investigates senior NSS officials, including the CEO, for allegedly masterminding a nationwide payroll fraud scheme involving 81,885 ghost names that siphoned state funds over several years.
Mr Mercer emphasized the importance of due process in the ongoing probe: “If an investigation is conducted and people are found to have misconducted themselves, then they ought to face the music as it were.”
The former lawmaker highlighted the dual benefit of thorough investigations.
“For me, this exercise allows you to do two things right. People who have actually committed an offense are held accountable, and those who may not be found culpable have the opportunity to clear their name.”
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