Mahama Ayariga May Reconsider Anti-OSP Bill Decision

Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has indicated that he and the Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, will reconsider their move to scrap the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) following a request from former President John Dramani Mahama.

Mr. Ayariga revealed on the floor of Parliament on Friday, December 12, that the Private Member’s Bill seeking to repeal the law establishing the OSP had already received approval from the Committee on Private Member’s Bills and was set for laying before the House.

He explained that initial discussions within Parliament showed a degree of agreement across the aisle regarding a review of the OSP’s existence. “Indeed, it is true that we raised the issue in this chamber. There were comments on both sides of the House, and there appeared to be some consensus about dealing with the office by way of reconsidering its existence,” he stated.

The Speaker, he added, had encouraged Members of Parliament who held strong views on the OSP’s future to pursue appropriate legislative action, which led to the formal submission of the bill.

However, Mr. Ayariga disclosed that a public statement issued by President Mahama on Thursday, December 11, prompted a change of heart. “It is true also that yesterday there was a statement, not a letter, by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, requesting that I reconsider my decision,” he said.

“So if His Excellency the President also has some thoughts about it, and I add mine to his, I believe together we can find a better way of managing the situation. I can assure you that I’ll take on board the request by His Excellency the President… and we will reconsider our decision,” he added.

This development follows President Mahama’s public opposition to calls for the OSP’s closure, which he deemed premature. He argued that the OSP is a vital anti-corruption institution with independent prosecutorial powers, a key distinction from the Attorney General’s office, which is often seen as susceptible to political influence.

A statement released on Thursday by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications, confirmed the President’s directive. “President John Dramani Mahama has requested the Majority Leader and Majority Chief Whip in Parliament to withdraw the Private Member’s Bill tabled for the repeal of the Act establishing the Office of the Special Prosecutor,” the statement read.

The statement further emphasized the President’s call for the OSP to enhance public trust through more effective investigations and a stronger commitment to tackling corruption.

Prior to the formal request, President Mahama had publicly advocated for strengthening the OSP, urging the office to expedite investigations and deliver more tangible results.

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