Mahama Sparks Parliament Row Over OSP Protection

President John Mahama has intervened to halt a bill seeking to repeal the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) Act, sparking a debate in Parliament.

The proposed legislation, initially filed by Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader, and Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, the Majority Chief Whip, on December 4, aimed to revert corruption prosecution powers to the Attorney-General. Their justification centered on perceived structural and constitutional issues, functional overlap, and the substantial costs associated with the OSP’s operations.

However, in a surprising turn of events on December 11, President Mahama urged a pause on the bill, stressing the OSP’s vital role in bolstering transparency and good governance. “The Office of the Special Prosecutor plays a critical role in our anti-corruption agenda, and my government remains committed to supporting and strengthening it,” he stated.

Presidential Spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, confirmed the President’s request through a statement released on Thursday, reiterating the government’s dedication to reinforcing institutions dedicated to combating corruption.

The move has drawn criticism from the opposition. Habib Iddrisu, the First Deputy Minority Whip, accused the Executive branch of attempting to exert control over Parliament. “Now the President is dictating to Members of Parliament,” he exclaimed on the floor of the House. “When the Majority Chief Whip and the Majority Leader intended to file a Private Members’ Bill, the President told them to repeal it. Why? Mr Speaker, the Executive has no authority to dictate what happens in Parliament.”

The OSP was established as Ghana’s primary independent anti-corruption body, with the mandate to investigate and prosecute both public and private individuals suspected of corruption offenses.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE