The Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has downplayed claims that the Operations Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee can retrieve as much as $20.49 billion for the state, describing the figure as inaccurate and based on rough estimates.
Early last year, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa claimed the ORAL Committee was handling about 36 cases and projected a potential recovery of $20.49 billion for the country.
However, speaking on Starr Chat with Bola Ray on Thursday, Dr. Ayine said the projection earlier hinted at by the ORAL Chairman and now Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has created unnecessary pressure on his office.
He explained that such figures raise public expectations that may not be supported by the actual evidence gathered during investigations.
“First, I was asked when we are going to see the $20 billion being recovered. I explained that this figure was a projection made by the ORAL Committee Chairperson, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, when we came into power. On the day the ORAL report was handed over to me, he mentioned the $20.1 billion figure. However, that amount was based on his own calculations and estimates.” He stated.
He further explained that “when you take DRIP, the amount involved is over $100 million. When you consider the estimated value of lands allegedly looted, including prime lands such as those in Cantonments, the figures rise significantly.
However, the amount mentioned by the ORAL Chairman was more of a back-of-the-envelope calculation rather than a precise or verified figure. The expectation of a $20 billion recovery places enormous pressure on me because the public now expects that amount to be delivered.”
According to him, “it could approach $20 billion if funds being pursued offshore are taken into account, because a lot of money was moved out of the country. But when it comes to what is currently in-country, the figures will depend on the specific cases under investigation.”
Dr. Ayine emphasized that all recoveries must be based on thorough investigations, solid documentation, and due legal processes, stressing that the Attorney-General’s Office will continue to pursue cases strictly on the basis of evidence and the rule of law.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Benjamin Sackey
