Accra: Mr Mahama Ayariga, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business in Parliament, has strongly called for the abolition of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), arguing that its mandate conflicts with the Attorney-General's Office.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Ayariga addressed Parliament on Thursday, expressing his view that the establishment of the OSP was inconsistent with the 1992 Constitution and 'not fit-for-purpose.' He questioned the relevance of the Office, which was created eight years ago, by asking what it has achieved since its inception.
Mr Ayariga, who represents Bawku Central, argued that adequately resourcing and holding the Attorney-General's Office accountable would enable it to prosecute corruption cases effectively. He clarified that eliminating the OSP would not absolve those under investigation of wrongdoing.
He also mentioned that the OSP could be dissolved through a bill introduced by either the Executive or as a private member's bill. Mr Ayariga also recalled his opposition to the OSP bill when it was first presented to Parliament.
However, Mr Samuel Abu Jinapor, Member of Parliament for Damongo, offered a counterpoint to Mr Ayariga's position. He asserted that the OSP remains relevant, especially in providing an independent mechanism to prosecute corruption-related cases outside the direct influence of the Attorney-General.
The debate underscored ongoing divisions within Parliament regarding the future of the OSP, which was established to bolster Ghana's anti-corruption efforts.