The Coalition for Democratic Accountability and Inclusive Governance (CDAIG) and known as Citizens’ Coalition says the woes of the Special Prosecutor, Kissi Agyabeng stem from taking up the case against former Sanitation Minister, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.
Addressing the media on the theme “Our Failing Fight Against Corruption, the Petition to Remove the OSP and Other Matters Arising” at the International Press Center, Ridge, on Wednesday 22nd May 2024, the group raised a number of issues and demanded the government takes the fight against corruption serious.
“Ladies and gentlemen, some of the developments referred to earlier and the responses to them, raise concerns about the functioning of our frontline anti-corruption institutions like the new kid on the block, the OSP.
“The establishment of the OSP was seen as an important missing piece in the array of anticorruption institutions to tackle the criminality of politically exposed persons in government. It was widely acknowledged that expecting the Attorney General to prosecute colleagues within and outside the government was untenable, necessitating the delegation of prosecutorial powers to an independent entity. Despite the goodwill the office received at its inception, that quickly turned sour”.
According to them, Mr. Amidu as the first occupant of the Special Prosecutor’s Office constantly raised concerns about inadequate facilities, logistical challenges, and occasional executive interferences.
“His eventual resignation laid blame at the President’s door. A sense of disillusionment pervaded among many Ghanaians regarding the office and its potential.
“Following a period of uncertainty, Mr. Kissi Adjabeng assumed the role of Special Prosecutor. Despite encountering similar hurdles to those experienced by Mr. Amidu, the office persevered and gradually found its footing, effectively carrying out its duties.
“While it has encountered occasional setbacks, the OSP has remained steadfast and taken on cases expected of a specialized anti-corruption organization,” CDAIG stated.
They disclosed that the public has increasingly acknowledged the crucial role played by the OSP and has shown strong support whenever it has come under attack.
“The OSP’s recent frustration has come from taking on Madam Cecilia Dapaah’s case. The public spat involving the AG, EOCO, and OSP shows clearly that the OSP and government relations are strained to put it mildly.
“The challenges of the OSP have even led to calls from some sections of society for the OSP’s abolition. In fact, legal proceedings were initiated, contesting the constitutional and statutory basis for the OSP’s establishment. If we truly aspire to fight corruption and succeed, our institutions must operate independently,” they stated.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM
