Majority Chief Whip and South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor has called on Parliament to distance itself from any direct investigation into the alleged bribery scandal surrounding the Aksa power deal. The controversy has sparked renewed scrutiny of the transaction following allegations of bribery involving former Goldman Sachs banker Asante Kwaku Berko.
Parliament's Role in Question
Mr Dafeamekpor's comments come as the OSP, the Attorney-General's Office, and the judiciary are already involved in the matter. He proposed a committee comprising representatives from these state institutions, along with civil society organisations, to support the investigation.
Speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, August 15, Mr Dafeamekpor said Parliament's involvement could raise concerns about conflicts of interest, given its role in approving public contracts and overseeing government business. "As for Parliament, it should distance itself. As a committee of inquiry. Yes," he said.
An Expert-Led Approach
Mr Dafeamekpor suggested a committee comprising representatives from the OSP, the Attorney-General's Office, the judiciary, and relevant civil society organisations. He said the OSP had indicated that it provided assistance to US authorities investigating aspects of the matter, suggesting that relevant material could already be available.
"The OSP has indicated clearly and has been acknowledged that they provided some tremendous assistance. So, there should be some material available in this matter," he said. Mr Dafeamekpor added that the Attorney-General's Office and the OSP appeared to have been working together on the matter.
Building on Existing Information
According to Mr Dafeamekpor, such an arrangement would allow investigators to build on information already gathered by state institutions rather than starting from scratch. He said the OSP had indicated that it provided assistance to US authorities investigating aspects of the matter, suggesting that relevant material could already be available.
Mr Dafeamekpor's proposal has sparked debate about the best way to proceed with the investigation. While some have called for Parliament to take a more active role, others have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
The controversy surrounding the Aksa power deal has raised questions about the transparency and accountability of government transactions. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold.
Source: JOY
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