Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, has questioned the rationale behind the creation of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), following concerns raised by Ofori-Atta’s surrogates over his investigation.
READ ALSO: Ofori-Atta’s GRA-SML case ‘politically motivated’ US-based lawyer
According to him, if Ofori-Atta’s people describe the OSP’s probe as “witch-hunting”, then the Office was specifically set up by the previous administration for that role, other than what is specified in the OSP Act.
“And so where from this narrative of witch hunting?” he asked while commenting on Ofori-Atta’s arrest and detention by ICE in the US.
Edudzi cited how John Mahama, then as ex-President, was invited by the OSP to give a statement, questioning why Ofori-Atta, a former Finance Minister, is evading OSP investigation, leading to his arrest in the US following his attempts to hide.
READ ALSO: Ken Ofori-Atta was arrested when he stepped out of a luxurious apartment in Washington – Manasseh
He questioned why the OSP investigated a former President and same cannot be done for a former Minister. “What is so unique about Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta that he cannot avail himself for investigation?”
“Is the impression not being created that if you’re running away you’ve committed some offence?” he quizzed.
He wondered why Ofori-Atta has hired top lawyers if he has nothing to hide, adding that a Finance Minister’s role is super crucial, since they control the public purse, unlike other appointees.
“Like Caesar’s wife, you need to live above reproach. Of all Ministers, the one that has direct financial fiduciary responsibility is that of the Finance Minister,” he stated, adding that investigation of Ken Ofori-Atta will rather serve the political interest of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“I think that it’s even in the interest of the NPP that Ken Ofori-Atta comes and account so that 2028 when you are campaigning, Ghanaians will not believe that if you vote for NPP, in a very long future, their Finance Ministers will run away from accountability,” he added.
‘Leadership is everything’ – NPA CEO lauds Mahama for clearing US$1.4bn energy sector debt
