Aksa case should ordinarily be handled by OSP, not EOCO – Manhyia South MP

Manhyia South MP, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, contends that the Aksa bribery case should be handled by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) instead of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The MP questioned the government's decision to have EOCO lead the investigation, asserting that the allegations against public officials make the OSP the more appropriate institution.

Awuah explained that the OSP was established to prosecute public officers or politically exposed persons who engage in bribery and corruption. However, EOCO defended its decision, arguing that the case may also involve money laundering, an issue EOCO can handle. Awuah insisted that the OSP's mandate specifically includes investigating corruption involving public officials and politically exposed persons, including allegations against high-ranking individuals, such as a former Power Minister.

Despite the Deputy Attorney General's assurance that no one would be shielded from accountability, Awuah maintained that the OSP is better suited to handle the case due to its focus on public officials. He expressed his views cautiously, acknowledging that the NPP has no confidence in Attorney General Dr Dominic Ayine, citing past instances of lack of transparency and accountability, such as the Unibank case.