Tensions are rising in Ghana’s Parliament as the Minority has issued a stern warning to the Attorney-General (AG), signaling their intention to pursue legal action if he does not reverse his controversial decision to discontinue the criminal prosecution of former UniBank CEO Dr. Kwabena Duffuor and six others.
The case at hand involves grave allegations concerning the misappropriation of approximately GHS 5.7 billion in depositors’ funds. Recently, the AG’s office withdrew the prosecution, citing the recovery of around 60% of the missing funds as justification for dropping the charges. This decision, however, has incited serious dissent from the Minority, who have raised fundamental questions about the legality and transparency surrounding it.
In a statement released on Monday, the Minority demanded concrete evidence to substantiate the claim that 60% of the lost funds had been successfully recovered. They insist that such a significant case of alleged financial misconduct cannot simply be dismissed without due process and adequate judicial review.
“The law requires either a conviction or restitution approved by the courts. Allowing suspects to walk free without a clear legal conclusion sets a dangerous precedent,” the statement articulated, echoing the concerns of many who believe accountability must be upheld in such serious matters.
Furthermore, the Minority has voiced apprehensions regarding a potential conflict of interest, citing reports that the Attorney-General may have previously served as legal counsel for some of those accused. If true, they argue, this revelation could severely compromise the integrity of both the AG’s decision and the office itself.
To address these pressing issues, the Minority has called upon Parliament’s Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee to summon the Attorney-General for a detailed explanation of his actions. They are also urging the Ghana Bar Association to investigate the Attorney-General’s conduct to ascertain whether he acted ethically and in accordance with professional standards.
“If the Attorney-General fails to reverse this decision in the coming days, we will be left with no choice but to seek legal redress through the courts,” the Minority emphasized, reiterating their commitment to protecting public funds and ensuring accountability.
Highlighting the importance of the case, they asserted that justice must not only be done but also be seen to be done, particularly in instances involving significant public interest and the integrity of the nation’s financial systems. With the clock ticking, the pressure is mounting on the Attorney-General to address the Minority’s concerns and restore confidence in the judicial process.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
