Examining the dynamics of public perceptions and civic engagement in anti-corruption efforts within the Ghana Police Service: a study of the Accra Metropolitan Assembly

This research discusses the dynamics of public perceptions and civic engagement in anti-corruption efforts within the Ghana Police Service, specifically in the Accra Metropolitan Assembly. Even with a ranking above most countries in the Sub-Saharan African average on the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, corruption remains deeply rooted in Ghana, especially within the police service. The research adopts a multi-method approach by fusing qualitative data derived from surveys and interviews to examine public perceptions of corruption and their relationship with civic engagement in anti-corruption initiatives. The study shows that respondents perceived the Ghana Police Service to be among the most corrupt institutions in the country, with bribery perceived to be the most common form of corruption in the police service. Findings from the study indicates that, negative perceptions have a substantial influence on the willingness of citizens to engage in anti-corruption initiatives within the GPS. This perception has significantly eroded public trust in law enforcement, leading to widespread apathy and reduced civic engagement. Barriers such as a lack of trust in authorities, fear of retaliation, and low public awareness further impede civic participation in anti-corruption initiatives. The research also identifies strong leadership, community-based public awareness campaigns and legal frameworks as critical enablers of effective civic engagement. However, the persistent negative perceptions of corruption within the police service by the public undermines these efforts, as citizens approach anti-corruption efforts with scepticism because over the course of time, these negative perceptions build up to a certain threshold where the citizens look at the police as an institution in a certain negative way, leading to a loss of public trust and reduced participation in anti-corruption initiatives, further entrenching the cycle of corruption. The paper reiterates that, addressing the negative public perception through transparent and accountable governance system, effective whistleblower protections, and targeted community-based awareness campaigns is crucial to rebuilding trust and fostering public engagement in anti-corruption efforts aimed at the Ghana Police Service.