Minority Criticizes 50% Budget Cut for Office of Special Prosecutor, Questions Intentions

Accra: The New Patriotic Party Minority Caucus in Parliament is up in arms over the government's alleged attempts to remove Mr. Kissi Agyebeng, the Special Prosecutor. According to Ghana News Agency, during the debate on the 2026 budget estimates for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Mr. Hassan Tampuli, the Deputy Ranking Member on the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee of Parliament, highlighted a significant 50 percent reduction in the budget request for the OSP for 2026. Mr. Tampuli expressed strong disapproval on the Floor of Parliament, emphasizing the importance of supporting offices of accountability in their fight against corruption. He urged caution in actions that might undermine the independence and fearlessness of such bodies. In his remarks, Mr. Tampuli questioned the government's motives, pondering the future of the OSP if Mr. Agyebeng were to be removed. He raised concerns about potential political interference, asking whether an individual from the opposition party, NDC, wo uld be appointed to fill the position. He further questioned the reasons behind the targeting of Mr. Agyebeng, asking, "What is his crime?" In response, the Majority Chief Whip refuted the allegations, assuring that the government had no intentions of forcing anyone out of office. He stated that citizens have the right to petition, and such actions should not be equated with attempts to remove individuals from their positions. The controversy arises amidst ongoing petitions calling for Mr. Agyebeng's removal on grounds of incompetence, financial mismanagement, and dereliction of duty.