The Convener of Democracy in Progress, Mr Solomon Owusu, has called on Ghanaians to embrace accountability as a core democratic habit, describing it as the primary catalyst for national development.

Speaking to the media at the International Press Centre on Thursday, October 1, 2026, Mr Owusu warned against selective accountability, where political parties demand transparency while in opposition but shield their own members once they assume power.

Mr Owusu criticised the recurring political pattern in Ghana, where calls for transparency shift depending on who holds power.

"For too long, accountability in Ghana has moved with the political cycle. The political party shouts for accountability when in opposition, but once in government, that same party goes quiet, shielding its own and condemning its opponents," he said.

He further stressed that a strong nation cannot be built on double standards, urging citizens and leaders alike to demand transparency at all times, not just during election seasons.

"We cannot approbate and reprobate on accountability; this culture must change. We cannot demand it when it serves our interest and abandon it when it becomes inconvenient.

"No democratic culture can be built on selective principles," he stated. "Accountability must not be a four-year event," Mr Owusu stated.

Addressing high-profile governance issues, Mr Owusu made a direct plea to the former Minister for Finance, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, to return to Ghana and give a full account of his tenure, during which he managed the public purse for seven and a half years.

He clarified that the call was not an accusation of wrongdoing, but a necessary step towards transparency. "No one is saying he has done something wrong; the citizens simply want accountability from Mr Ofori-Atta regarding his stewardship," Mr Owusu added.