NPP using backroom influence over Special Prosecutor to play legal game to delay corruption cases in court – GFL

Mr Abraham Koomson, Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), has revealed that the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) is using backroom influence over the Special Prosecutor to engage in unnecessary legal gymnastics to delay cases of previous government officials facing prosecution.

Mr Koomson, therefore, called on the government of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), especially the Minister of Justice and Attorney General, to be vigilant and protect the integrity of the government and avoid legal backroom wrangling by the NPP and the OSP.

The GFL Secretary General has also called on the current administration to consider reassigning the Special Prosecutor Mr Kissi Agyebeng, citing concerns over potential loyalty and trust issues stemming from his appointment by the previous NPP government.

In an interview with media personnel in Tema on Saturday, Mr. Koomson expressed apprehensions that the Special Prosecutor's objectivity might be compromised due to his ties to the former administration, stressing that "even though Kissi Agyebeng is independent-minded, his trust and loyalty must be assessed."

The GFL Secretary General specifically questioned the handling of investigations involving former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, suggesting that the Special Prosecutor might be giving the appearance of action while shielding key figures.

Mr Koomson emphasised, “I have no personal issues with Mr Kissi Agyebeng's work; I believe the current administration must consider reassignment – not dismissal – to ensure complete public trust in the high-profile Office of Recovery of Assets and Loot (ORAL) investigations initiated by President John Mahama.”

"The ORAL thing is the initiative of President Mahama, which must achieve results, and I don’t have issues with the Special Prosecutor personally," he said.

Mr. Koomson stated, "But I feel loyalty counts, and the government must find ways of dealing with all ORAL cases without the involvement of the OSP."

To expedite the adjudication of ORAL cases, Mr. Koomson proposed the establishment of special courts, similar to the Fast Track Courts introduced under former President Kufuor.

He warned that relying solely on the traditional judicial system might delay justice and weaken the impact of the President's anti-corruption agenda.

The GFL Secretary General's call for reassignment has sparked a crucial debate about the role of the Special Prosecutor's office in Ghana's fight against corruption.

As the country continues to grapple with issues of accountability and transparency, Mr. Koomson's remarks highlight the need for a nuanced approach to addressing corruption allegations while ensuring public trust in the justice system.