By The Executive Director of the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), Mary Awalena Addah, has reiterated the importance of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in fighting corruption.
She said the institution must be allowed to carry out its mandate without political interference.
Speaking on recent developments regarding the OSP’s investigations on the KeyPoints with Alfred Ocansey, she noted that the office was established to investigate and prosecute corruption-related offenses, a role that remains essential in ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
Ms. Addah highlighted the case involving the former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, stating that the OSP had conducted thorough investigations before extending an invitation to him.
However, she raised concerns about the timing of the request, questioning how the former minister was able to leave the country before being called to respond to allegations.
She emphasized that if he was medically unfit to return, the OSP could explore international cooperation mechanisms, including working with Interpol or other legal frameworks, to address the issue.
Addressing speculations about the motivations behind the investigations, she dismissed claims that the probe was politically motivated or aimed at witch-hunting former government officials.
Instead, she maintained that the fight against corruption must continue, regardless of which political party is in power.
“Fighting corruption both within a regime and post-regime is critical. If people have questions to answer, they must answer. We must not allow any impressions of bias or delay tactics to overshadow the need for accountability,” she stated.
Ms. Addah also pointed out that while civil society organizations have raised concerns about the timing and effectiveness of some OSP investigations, she believes the office is now well-equipped with staff and resources to function effectively.
The anti-corruption crusader urged the public to support the institution while holding it accountable for delivering results.
She further referenced President Akufo-Addo’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts, stating that while past actions have often been more rhetoric than action, there is now an opportunity to see concrete steps taken.
“If the President has made clear his intentions to tackle corruption, then we must ensure that this is not just talk. We need action, and we must support the institutions leading the fight while asking the necessary questions when required.”
Ms. Addah concluded by emphasizing the need for steadfastness in the anti-corruption agenda, urging both civil society and the general public to remain vigilant in ensuring that corruption-related cases are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted.
