Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has questioned the basis for the government’s decision to discontinue court cases against officials and associates of the previous Mahama administration.
In an article titled “Chief clearing agent”, the Ghanaian journalist noted that “Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) cannot succeed when its implementers are engaged in Operation Clear All Looters (OCAL).”
Manasseh Azure Awuni called for accountability, noting that “Ghanaians deserve to know the basis for the government’s mass discontinuation of court cases.”
According to him, the move sets a dangerous precedent, undermining President Mahama’s vow to reset Ghana and prosecute government officials who have stolen or caused money to be stolen from the public purse.
“What President Mahama is telling the NPP officials his administration will charge is very simple: if you are charged, drag the case as long as you can, and if your party comes into office, the court process will be truncated, and you will be set free,” Manasseh Azure Awuni noted.
He expressed concern that the Attorney-General is truncating prosecution without justification, emphasizing that “the power belongs to Ghanaians and must be exercised in our interest.”
The outspoken journalist cited the ambulance procurement scandal as an example, where despite the defendants being acquitted, the state had lost money.
Background
The government has officially dropped several high-profile cases involving members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
These include the controversial ambulance case against Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and businessman Richard Jakpa.
Also, the state has dropped cases against former National Chairman of the NDC Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, and the party’s Communications Officer, Anthony Kwaku Boahen.
As if that was not enough, the Attorney-General, Dominic Ayine has withdrawn all charges against Dr. Stephen Kwabena Opuni, the former CEO of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), and businessman Seidu Agongo.
The government’s silence on the matter has only fueled public outrage, with many demanding explanations for the abrupt discontinuation of high-profile cases that had prompted widespread interest and concern.
