I’ve Turned Down Anti-Corruption Awards, I Don’t Need Them – Martin Amidu

Special Prosecutor nominee, Martin Amidu, says his work as an anti-corruption campaigner has never been about himself but rather the need to protect Ghana’s interest.

The former Attorney-General (A-G) said he has turned down several awards by organizations that want to celebrate his works.

“I refused them and wrote to them [organizers] that it is not about Martin Amidu. I want them [anti-corruption fights] to be centered on the national need,” he told Parliament’s Appointments Committee, Tuesday.

Mr. Amidu has been celebrated for his anti-corruption activities especially after he won a case at the Supreme Court to cross-examine businessman, Alfred Woyome, over the GHS51.2million wrongfully paid him.

The two belong to the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) but the former A-G has backed the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) to retrieve the money from the businessman.

His action has courted the displeasure of some NDC members who have labeled him a traitor and have been opposed to his Special Prosecutor nomination.

But his works continue to receive wide acclamation from sections of Ghanaians and fellow anti-corruption campaigners both here in Ghana and Africa.

Former CHRAJ boss, Justice Emile Short has labeled Mr. Amidu as a “serious anti-corruption crusader” who should be accepted by all well-meaning Ghanaians.

“Martin Amidu has a proven anti-corruption record,” he said of the former NDC Vice presidential candidate.

But the former A-G who described himself as “a shy person” said he has declined awards bestowed on him by groups that want to celebrate his anti-corruption works.

He was recently awarded by the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) at its Annual General Conference in Sunyani last year, but he said he did not need it.

“It was announced but nothing came…it was in the wind,” he said of the GBA award, drawing laughter from the gathering.

Mr. Amidu has implored Ghanaians to emulate his passion and commitment to rid the country of corruption instead of showering awards on him.

“The government hasn’t given me an award…[and] I haven’t asked for one,” he said, adding “it is better to fight the canker [corruption] than allow it to fester.”

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