Accra, Jan. 7, GNA - President John Evans Atta Mills on Thursday said Government would not make scapegoats on allegations of corruption but would thoroughly investigate matters for conclusive evidence before prosecution.

He reiterated Government's resolve to investigate matters of supposed infractions on the law by National Democratic Congress (NDC) and New Patriotic Party (NPP) appointees, officials and functionaries, but stated that time was of essence not to erase traces of evidence and leads.

In a media interaction on the first year of his administration at the Osu Castle in Accra, President Mills promised to build on the economic achievements of the Government.

He stated categorically that his administration would not condone corruption and that it was committed to deliver to improve upon the living standards of the people.

President Mills answered questions on the nation's assessment of his administration's performance; proposed annual national thanksgiving service; prosecution of public officials for alleged corruption; the Dagbon crisis; payment of ex-gratia awards to Former President Jerry Rawlings and Former President John Agyekum Kufuor.

He reacted to criticisms of his performance by some members of the NDC and its Founder President Rawlings, saying "the economy is gaining grounds, and the first year's performance is an indication of what lies ahead".

President Mills registered his satisfaction about the performance of the Executive and expressed the hope that with hard work, they would perform to help to improve the living standards of the people.

He thanked the media for helping the Government to improve on the freedom of speech and democratic governance.