A report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) has highlighted the extent of bribery in public service delivery, revealing that about seven out of every ten bribes paid to public officials are made before a service is rendered.
The findings come from the Corruption in Ghana: People’s Experiences and Views report, which analysed citizens’ interactions with public institutions. According to the report, approximately 68.4 percent of bribes are paid before services are provided, indicating that many citizens believe payment is often expected before receiving public services.
The report notes that this trend reflects the bargaining power of some public officials, who are able to demand unofficial payments in exchange for services that should ordinarily be provided without extra cost.
GSS also estimated that billions of cedis were paid in bribes during the survey period, underscoring the economic and governance challenges posed by corruption.
The Statistical Service says strengthening transparency, accountability and enforcement of anti-corruption laws remains critical to reducing bribery and improving public confidence in state institutions.
The findings have renewed discussions on governance reforms and the need for stronger institutional measures to tackle corruption across public services.
