Ghana’s Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, has announced that Parliament will soon commence the drafting of legislation to allow lifestyle audits for individuals suspected of accumulating wealth beyond their known or declared income sources.
The forthcoming bill aims to establish a legal framework that empowers state institutions to scrutinize the financial lifestyles of public officials, politically exposed persons, and private individuals whose lavish standards of living raise red flags. The legislation is being promoted as a crucial measure in Ghana’s fight against corruption and illicit financial practices.
According to Speaker Bagbin, the proposed lifestyle audit law is gaining traction, with backing from key stakeholders including the Office of the Special Prosecutor, the Vice President, and various civil society organizations. This growing support reflects a nationwide call for accountability and transparency in governance and wealth acquisition.
The Speaker emphasized that the bill, once enacted, will provide legal authority to investigate and question individuals whose wealth appears inconsistent with their professional earnings. It marks a transition from merely condemning corruption to actively preventing and prosecuting it through enforceable laws.
The move comes amid rising public concern about the visible display of unexplained riches by some politicians and public servants, at a time when many Ghanaians continue to face economic challenges. The new legislation seeks to discourage the public flaunting of ill-gotten wealth and restore confidence in state institutions.
Speaker Bagbin stated that the proposed lifestyle audit law is part of a broader push to strengthen anti-corruption reforms and build a governance system based on accountability, fairness, and justice.
By introducing this legal tool, Parliament hopes to send a strong message that Ghana is serious about confronting corruption and promoting responsible public service.
