The recent statement by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) regarding Ken Ofori-Atta has raised concerns among the Eastern Regional Executive Committee of the NPP. The OSP’s attempt to dismiss the reported raid on Mr. Ofori-Atta’s residence as “staged” is deemed reckless and prejudicial, undermining the credibility of the institution.
The OSP’s statement is particularly disturbing given Mr. Ofori-Atta’s distinguished service as Ghana’s Finance Minister. During his tenure, he implemented policies that delivered remarkable economic results, including:
1. Economic Growth: Ghana’s GDP growth surged from 3.4% in 2016 to 8.1% in 2017, making Ghana one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
2. Fiscal Deficit Reduction: The fiscal deficit decreased from 9.3% of GDP in 2016 to 4.8% by 2018, demonstrating fiscal discipline.
3. Inflation Control: Inflation declined from over 15.4% in 2016 to 7.9% in December 2019, enhancing economic stability.
4. Financial Sector Reform: The banking sector was cleaned up, ensuring stability and protecting millions of depositors’ funds.
5. Debt Management: The debt-to-GDP ratio was stabilized, and interest rates declined, making credit more accessible to businesses and individuals.
The OSP’s public condemnation of Mr. Ofori-Atta without substantive proof of wrongdoing raises concerns about the institution’s commitment to due process and ethical standards. Specifically, the OSP’s statement violates key constitutional and ethical principles, including:
1. Presumption of Innocence: The OSP’s tone suggests guilt before due process is complete, contradicting Article 19(2)(c) of the 1992 Constitution.
2. Right to Dignity: Public officials who have served diligently, like Mr. Ofori-Atta, should not be subjected to unnecessary public humiliation, as stated in Article 15(1).
3. Prosecutorial Ethics: The Special Prosecutor must conduct investigations with fairness and impartiality, not make prejudicial public statements, as mandated by Section 5 of the OSP Act, 2017, Act 959.
The OSP must take steps to rectify this situation and uphold the principles of due process, professionalism, and fairness. This includes avoiding politicization and respecting the presumption of innocence. The people of Ghana deserve an impartial justice system, not one that seeks to tarnish reputations based on political expediency.
Thank you..
ER, NPP CHAIRMAN
JEFF KONADU ADDO
024 327 5486
