President John Dramani Mahama’s strong opposition to the proposed repeal of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) Act demonstrates his commitment to Ghana’s anti-corruption fight, according to the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana).
The CDD-Ghana believes the President’s intervention is a crucial signal of support for protecting vital accountability institutions.
Dr Kojo Pumpuni Asante, Director of Advocacy and Policy Engagement at CDD-Ghana, commended President Mahama for urging Members of Parliament, specifically Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga and Majority Chief Whip Rockson Nelson Dafeamekpor, to withdraw the Private Member’s Bill aimed at abolishing the OSP. He made these remarks on Citi FM on Thursday, December 11.
Dr Asante refuted claims of the Special Prosecutor’s office being ineffective, stating that evidence suggests otherwise. “We welcome the President’s intervention. I disagree with the narrative that the OSP’s performance has been poor because the evidence does not support that claim. If there are concerns about the constitutionality of the office, they should be addressed during the constitutional review process—not used as a basis to scrap it,” he said.
He further emphasized the President’s consistent support for an effective anti-corruption framework. “The President has shown consistency in supporting the office and reinforced the need to design an accountability system that delivers meaningful results for Ghanaians,” Dr Asante added.
President Mahama’s call for the Bill’s withdrawal came amidst widespread criticism. He had earlier addressed the National Peace Council, describing the timing of the proposed repeal as inappropriate and warning that dismantling the OSP would undermine national efforts to combat corruption.
Instead of abolishing the office, the President encouraged the Special Prosecutor to enhance operational efficiency and expedite investigations to restore public confidence in the institution.
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