OSP probes alleged GH¢70,000.00 payment to MP

The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) is conducting preliminary investigations into an alleged GH¢70,000.00 payment allegedly made to a Member of Parliament (MP). The investigation was prompted by the circulation of a memo, purportedly written by Madam Patricia Appiagyei, MP for Asokwa and Deputy Minority Leader, addressed to Mr Frank Annoh-Dompreh, MP for Nsawam/Adoagyiri and Minority Chief Whip.

According to the OSP, the memo alleged that Madam Appiagyei had returned GH¢70,000.00, which she had received as an advance from the Majority Chief Whip. This alleged payment was connected to the Appointments Committee's vetting process for ministerial candidates and Supreme Court nominees.

The OSP stated that it initiated the investigation due to the constitutional significance of the Appointments Committee and the necessity to maintain the integrity of the parliamentary vetting process. The investigation aims to verify the authenticity of the memo, identify the origin of the alleged funds, and determine their intended purpose.

During the preliminary investigation, the OSP is examining the contents of the memo, particularly the claim that Madam Appiagyei raised concerns about the source of the funds. The allegations also suggest that the payment may have been a form of extortion towards the nominees. Consequently, the OSP has sent a communication to Madam Appiagyei, inviting her to appear before the Office to assist with the investigation.

The OSP emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity and credibility of Parliament's constitutional vetting procedures. The preliminary investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the alleged transaction and ascertain whether any offense has been committed. The OSP also stated that it is actively investigating all allegations of extortion involving Members of Parliament, assuring the public that the investigations will be conducted lawfully and based on available evidence.