EOCO's conduct is causing govt more harm than good - Kwasi Kwarteng

Kwasi Kwarteng, a legal practitioner and member of the New Patriotic Party, has criticized the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for its conduct in handling cases, claiming it harms the government more than it helps. Kwarteng, speaking on TV3, pointed to the failed arrest of Manhyia South Member of Parliament Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, conducted at the Accra High Court Complex.

Kwarteng argued the timing and method of the arrest were poor, unintelligent and unwise, questioning whether the EOCO is the sole law enforcement agency in Ghana. Speaking on TV3, private lawyer Martin Kpebu reiterated that under Ghanaian law, one can resist unlawful arrest. Kpebu suggested the EOCO should have notified the Speaker of Parliament instead of making the arrest directly.

He also advised EOCO to have contacted the Speaker, as Ghanaian law dictates that arrests of MPs should proceed through the Speaker. Kpebu emphasized that the incident occurred while Awuah was representing a client at the court, and that his support for President Mahama in the 2024 elections does not imply endorsement of the Mahama administration's actions.

Kpebu reminded the Mahama administration that proper procedures should be followed when arresting MPs. The Ghana Bar Association also expressed concern over the attempted arrest, emphasizing the need for due process and respect for legal professionals' rights. The GBA warned that such actions could undermine public confidence in the justice system and the rule of law.