EOCO’s handling of arrests could cost NDC power – Kpebu

Legal expert Martin Kpebu has cautioned that the Economic and Organised Crime Office's (EOCO) handling of an arrest case involving Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah could potentially result in the National Democratic Congress (NDC) losing power within the next six years. Kpebu made this assertion following the MP's voluntary submission to EOCO on October 1, following a High Court warrant for his arrest.

EOCO stated they are collaborating with the Attorney-General's Office to bring the MP before a court during the weekend.

Addressing the media on October 3, Kpebu expressed his appreciation for Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin's insistence on adhering to parliamentary procedures, despite his membership in the NDC. Kpebu pointed out that Parliament's Standing Orders outline clear steps for addressing the arrest of a sitting MP, and questioned why EOCO had not followed those procedures.

He argued that the MP's continued detention, along with what Kpebu termed as mistakes in the case handling, could gradually diminish public confidence in the government.

Kpebu noted that although the NDC might maintain power in the upcoming election, discontent with the government's conduct could accumulate over time. He urged the administration to learn from the past failures of previous administrations and refrain from actions that might generate public resentment. Kpebu emphasized the necessity for authorities to uphold parliamentary procedures and guarantee that investigations involving MPs are carried out within the bounds of the law.

His remarks come amidst Parliament's growing concerns over the prolonged detention of Baffour Awuah, which has raised questions about his rights, parliamentary privileges, and the autonomy of Parliament.