Ghana Aksa Bribery Scandal: Lawmaker Demands Urgent Probe

A prominent Ghanaian lawmaker has called for an urgent probe into the Aksa bribery scandal, which has been in the public domain for over a decade. The Majority Chief Whip, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor, made the call on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, August 15.

Calls for Swift Investigation

Dafeamekpor emphasized that Ghana's probe must not drag on, citing the recent United States prosecution involving former Goldman Sachs banker Asante Kwaku Berko, which brought allegations of bribery connected to the power deal back into the spotlight. He noted that Ghanaian prosecutorial and investigative institutions had already played a role in assisting the US authorities with their investigations, making it essential for Ghana to pursue its own inquiry into the matter.

According to Dafeamekpor, the involvement of Ghanaian institutions demonstrates that the matter has not been entirely outside the reach of the country's prosecutorial authorities. He argued that the conclusion of the US proceedings, or developments arising from them, should provide an opportunity for Ghanaian authorities to establish the full facts surrounding the transaction and determine whether any wrongdoing occurred.

Opposition Calls for Independent Investigation

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has called for an independent investigation, amid concerns about whether the Attorney-General can be trusted to lead an inquiry into the allegations. Dafeamekpor described the NPP's position as "very interesting," noting that the allegations have existed for more than 10 years. He questioned the NPP's distrust of the Attorney-General, but said he supported calls for further investigations in Ghana.

Dafeamekpor stressed that the objective should be to uncover the truth rather than to protect individuals or pursue political interests. He maintained that Ghana must strengthen its approach to accountability, particularly in cases involving alleged wrongdoing by public officials. He expressed concern that allegations of misconduct are too often discussed publicly without resulting in meaningful sanctions.

Accountability and Public Office

Dafeamekpor argued that accountability should not end simply because an individual has left public office. He said former public officials should remain answerable for decisions and actions taken while they were in office if subsequent investigations establish breaches or impropriety. He stated that such measures would help establish a stronger culture of public accountability and send a clear message to future generations.

A Process for Further Scrutiny

Dafeamekpor outlined a process in which investigators would establish the facts, prepare a report, and make recommendations, with the appropriate authorities then acting on those recommendations. He emphasized that the passage of time should not become a reason for the matter to be abandoned. Instead, he wants the relevant institutions to move quickly, establish the facts, and ensure that any person found to have breached the law or abused public office is held accountable.

The Majority Chief Whip's comments come as the Aksa bribery scandal continues to draw attention, with renewed calls for further investigations and accountability. As the matter unfolds, one thing is clear: Ghana's pursuit of truth and justice will be closely watched by the international community.

Source: JOY