Accra: Former Member of Parliament for Sekondi Andrews Egyapa-Mercer has raised questions about the legal obligations of public officials to account for their actions after leaving office. In a spirited defense of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, Egyapa-Mercer questioned the existence of a law that mandates such accountability.
According to Ghana Web, Egyapa-Mercer expressed his skepticism during a discussion on Joy News, asserting that former public office holders should not be compelled to present themselves for questioning without any criminal charges. He emphasized the need for accountability to be anchored in legal frameworks rather than being driven by public pressure or political sentiments.
Egyapa-Mercer argued that in the absence of formal accusations from the Attorney-General or state investigative bodies, there is no legal requirement for any individual to appear before investigators. He challenged critics to demonstrate a specific law that necessitates such accountability, insisting that due process must prevail.
Furthermore, he noted that when evidence of wrongdoing is present, the law delineates a clear procedure. He urged investigators to proceed to court, establish a prima facie case, and let the judicial process unfold. His comments come in the context of Ken Ofori-Atta facing charges of corruption related to the SML scandal, with the Ghanaian government seeking his extradition from the United States.