The Deputy Attorney General, Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, has defended the government’s decision to provide updates on ongoing high-profile corruption investigations, insisting that transparency is a key component of accountability in a democracy.
Speaking on State of Affairs with Joshua Kodjo Mensah, Dr. Srem-Sai responded to criticisms that the Attorney General’s office is trying cases in the “court of public opinion” before formal charges have been filed. He argued that the government has a responsibility to keep Ghanaians informed about major legal proceedings, especially when there is significant public interest.
“We are running a democracy. The powers we exercise as the Office of the Attorney General originally belong to the people of Ghana. It is our duty to be accountable to the people, and one of the key ways of accountability is transparency,” he said.
Dr. Srem-Sai acknowledged concerns from defense lawyers about potential reputational damage to individuals under investigation but emphasized that the government does not bring cases to the public unless there is substantial evidence.
“In this particular case, we have sufficient facts to get the people of Ghana to understand what is going on,” he stated, adding that over 50 individuals have been interrogated in connection with the case, with more arrests expected.
The Deputy Attorney General also addressed delays in charging some of the suspects, explaining that the investigation has uncovered a complex network of transactions involving multiple companies, including two registered in the United Kingdom.
“These discoveries have made it necessary for us to take our time in building the case. The more we investigate, the more layers we uncover,” he explained.
One key suspect remains in custody due to concerns about his potential to flee. “New intelligence shows he has multiple Ghanaian passports and the means to acquire citizenship in other countries, making him a flight risk,” Dr. Srem-Sai disclosed.
On the ongoing National Service Scheme (NSS) scandal, where an MP is alleged to have received money to suppress information, Dr. Srem-Sai said the government understands the public’s demand to reveal the lawmaker’s identity. However, he urged patience, stating that naming the individual prematurely could compromise the investigation.
“It is enough for now that the public knows such an act occurred. In due course, the full details will be disclosed,” he assured.
Dr. Srem-Sai also touched on the SkyTrain project scandal, revealing that authorities are closely monitoring the movements of the former Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) boss.
“He initially indicated he would return to Ghana in three months, but we have intelligence that suggests he is strategically moving between countries without extradition treaties with Ghana,” he revealed.
Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to ensuring that all individuals involved in financial misconduct are brought to justice.
“We are open-minded about all legal options and will act as soon as the opportunity presents itself,” he concluded.
