Justice, equality, and fairness are the cornerstones of any functional democracy. A just society requires that all individuals be treated equally, regardless of their social, economic, or political standing.
The proverb "People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones" is a variant of the phrase "You don't try throwing stones when you want to enter the house" by lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi. According to this adage, someone who is weak or flawed shouldn't be critical of others because doing so can reveal their own shortcomings.
The arrest and subsequent protest surrounding Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), have sparked a significant discourse on accountability, the rule of law, and the political climate in Ghana. The protests led by members of the Minority Caucus in Parliament raise important questions about political solidarity, the integrity of state institutions, and the implications of political influence on judicial processes.
Wontumi has been accused of various financial irregularities, including fraud, causing financial loss to the state, and money laundering. The investigations are reportedly tied to a larger international organized crime scheme, which complicates the matter further and underscores the gravity of the allegations facing him. Under Ghanaian law, individuals accused of serious crimes must account for their actions, especially when the stakes involve public trust and potential misuse of state resources.
The principle of accountability is paramount in any democracy. It mandates that individuals, particularly those in positions of power, are answerable for their actions and the decisions they make. In this context, it begs the question: should the leaders of a political party rally behind an individual merely because he represents their party, irrespective of the seriousness of the allegations leveled against him? Public trust depends on the willingness of political actors to allow due process to unfold without undue interference.
The protest staged by the Minority MPs in support of Wontumi presents a fascinating yet troubling aspect of Ghanaian politics. On one hand, it showcases political solidarity within a party framework. On the other, it raises concerns that legislative members do not regard the sanctity of legal processes that underpin the rule of law. In a functioning democracy, lawmakers should prioritize the legal structures and norms designed to ensure justice—especially when a fellow party member is facing serious allegations.
Protests can serve as an essential tool for nonviolent expression and advocacy for change. However, when political actors leverage protests to challenge the legal system’s integrity, it sets a dangerous precedent. Are they calling attention to a potential miscarriage of justice, or are they attempting to exert political pressure to manipulate outcomes for a party ally?
The act of protesting in support of Wontumi does not merely reflect on him; it reflects on the broader political environment in which accountability often becomes a casualty of partisanship. Political supporters must recognize that they can advocate for their members without compromising the principles of justice and accountability. Otherwise, they risk fostering an environment where political allegiance takes precedence over legal obligations.
Beyond the protest itself, the legal context surrounding public demonstrations in Ghana, particularly the Public Order Act, raises a critical discussion about adherence to laws designed to maintain public order. Section 491(1) of this act stipulates that any individual or organization intending to hold a special event in a public place shall notify the police at least five days prior to the event to minimize disruptions to daily life.
In the case of the protests, there are legitimate concerns regarding the adherence to this law by Members of Parliament. The public servant's obligation is not solely to advocate for their constituents but also to abide by the laws of the land. Their actions during the protest illustrated a paradox: they demanded accountability for a party member while simultaneously disregarding the legal protocols meant to govern public demonstrations.
This contradiction illustrates a broader narrative within Ghana’s political landscape: the perception that political affiliation grants immunity. This could result in an erosion of public trust, as ordinary citizens may perceive that political elites are above accountability to both their own constituencies and the law. This illustrates a dangerous notion—that one can act without regard for consequences simply due to political connections.
Moreover, this situation serves as a crucial reminder to the Ghanaian populace about the need for continuous engagement with and scrutiny of their political representatives. Citizens should advocate for accountability demands of their leaders and expect full commitment to transparency in governance.
The unfolding story surrounding Wontumi’s detention and the subsequent protests highlight profound issues within the Ghanaian political landscape. Upholding the rule of law should never be subordinate to political allegiance or influence; rather, every citizen, especially those in leadership positions, should
The protest highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency in Ghana's political system, as allegations of financial irregularities against Chairman Wontumi are serious and should be thoroughly investigated. The protest may be seen as political grandstanding, with the focus on scoring political points rather than promoting accountability.
Kudos to Lawyer Andy Appiah Kubi for handling the Wontumi case with maturity. Unlike some others who seem to politicize every issue, he's letting the legal process unfold. Due to politics, it is pitiful to hear so many lawyers claim that the fifty million Ghanaian cedi bail requirement was unfair. They made all of those statements without knowing the specifics or particulars of the offence.If people think the investigation or bail conditions are unfair, the court is the right place to contest it. While law enforcement isn't obligated to disclose details, providing information about Wontumi's arrest could enhance transparency and credibility.
Ghanaians are so excited to see all duty bearers being held accountable. No one is above the law. Let’s allow the law to take its course.
By Evans Mawunyo Tsikata
Former Nigeria President Buhari, 82, dies in a London hospital
Late Buhari’s service will forever be a part of Nigeria’s story — Tinubu mourns ...
Bawumia never saw the need to seek justice for Ayawaso West by-election victims ...
Ablekuma North chaos: ‘We don’t have to maim and kill to elect leaders’ — Manass...
Electoral violence makes Ghanaians look like animals to the world — Manasseh Azu...
Gbande fires back at Afenyo-Markin over “baseless” accusations of electoral viol...
Mahama orders crackdown on unapproved shipping charges
NPP’s Frederick Green accuses EC, gov't of rigging Ablekuma North Rerun
We need bottom-top structure elections, committed electioneering army — Razak Ko...
Ablekuma North rerun chaos will destroy the gains we've made in our democracy — ...
