The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has voiced its frustration over the escalating number of dismissive rulings in corruption cases, cautioning that this growing trend could have grave implications for the country’s anti-corruption endeavors.
The OSP, which is responsible for investigating and prosecuting corruption-related offences, believes that the increasing hasty dismissiveness and lack of regard for such cases could severely hinder its ability to fulfil its mandate.
The OSP, established as an independent body to combat corruption and ensure accountability, plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and fostering transparency within the nation.
However, recent developments have raised concerns within the office regarding the effectiveness of its efforts.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng emphasized that corruption poses a significant threat to the country’s socio-economic development and undermines public trust in the government and its institutions.
He warned that allowing corruption cases to be dismissed hastily without proper examination could have dire consequences for the overall fight against corruption.
The Special Prosecutor urged the judiciary to reconsider its approach to corruption cases, emphasizing the need for thorough and impartial investigations and prosecutions.
“It will be absolutely of no good if the OSP is set against the judiciary or if the judiciary is against the OSP. That will surely spell disastrous consequences for this republic, especially in the fight against corruption to the glee of corrupt persons.” “I do not intend to sound as though I’m predicting doom but we are facing doom. With this development, it will not be long before a suspected murderer or armed robber will boldly walk to court with the unthinkable prayer that the court should injunct law enforcement agencies from investigating him.”
To address this issue, the OSP has called for greater attention and scrutiny from the judiciary when handling corruption cases. The OSP further urged the judiciary to prioritize the fight against corruption and consider the long-term consequences of dismissive rulings.
Additionally, the OSP has called for enhanced collaboration and coordination among all stakeholders involved in the anti-corruption fight. This includes closer cooperation between the OSP, law enforcement agencies, and other relevant bodies to ensure a comprehensive and unified approach towards tackling corruption.
In addition to highlighting the dismissive rulings, the OSP announced that it will be carrying out a payroll audit, beginning with the Ghana Education Service and the Metropolitan Municipal and District Assemblies.
Furthermore, the OSP has already commenced investigations into a deal at the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR). Finally, to combat corruption, the OSP will investigate the ownership and sale of stool and public lands.
Mr. Agyebeng acknowledged that Ghana is not fully ready to fight corruption, as many members of the public prefer to remain silent on matters of corruption. He called on Ghanaians to support the OSP to prevent Ghana from losing the fight against corruption.
He also charged Ghanaians to uphold the law and support law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat corruption.
