Prof. Mike Oquaye recounts how he blocked Special Prosecutor’s attempt to arrest Bawku Central MP

Former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye, has revealed his role in preventing the Special Prosecutor from attempting to arrest Bawku Central MP, Mahama Ayariga, during his time as Speaker. Prof. Oquaye emphasized that his intervention was not politically motivated but was driven by a desire to protect Ayariga's constitutional rights and uphold parliamentary privilege.

He explained that Ayariga was under investigation by the previous Special Prosecutor, and he took active steps to stop the attempts, asserting that it was not an issue of party politics. Oquaye invited the Special Prosecutor to an open meeting to discuss the matter in accordance with constitutional principles. He documented his stance in a letter to ensure the issue was formally recorded.

Prof. Oquaye's actions were guided by the constitutional principle of separation of powers and the need to shield Parliament from potential executive interference. He traced the historical context of parliamentary privilege, including its development in England, to underscore its purpose and the importance of respecting it to maintain the balance of power within the government structure.