Ghana's Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has appealed to President John Mahama to rein in his appointees and ensure that state institutions exercise their powers within the law. This appeal follows a confrontation at the Accra High Court involving Manhyia South MP, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, and security personnel reportedly linked to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The incident has raised concerns about the conduct of state institutions.
The confrontation occurred on Wednesday, September 23, at the Accra High Court, where Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, a lawyer and MP for Manhyia South, was involved in a scuffle with security personnel allegedly linked to EOCO. According to reports, the incident was linked to an invitation by EOCO, which the MP claimed he had not received personally. The incident has sparked debate about the activities of EOCO and other state institutions.
Afenyo-Markin, in a press conference, urged President Mahama to reflect on his legacy as he approaches the end of his second term. He emphasized that the President should consider the impact of his appointees' actions on the country. The Minority Leader stressed that the Minority is not opposed to accountability or the lawful activities of state institutions but criticized EOCO for allegedly overstepping its mandate.
Afenyo-Markin specifically criticized EOCO, alleging that the institution has gained notoriety for abusing its mandates. He called on the President to intervene and bring his appointees to order, stating that the current situation is not the Ghana they want. The Minority Leader emphasized that state institutions must operate lawfully and be seen to be doing so.
The incident at the Accra High Court is linked to Salomey Baffoe Awiti, who is facing a charge of abetment of crime, specifically publication of false news, in connection with investigations into the “Ghana Jollof” TikTok account. The High Court adjourned her bail application hearing to September 24 after the prosecution requested additional time to respond.
The controversy surrounding EOCO's activities has sparked concerns about the treatment of individuals facing charges and the conduct of state institutions. Afenyo-Markin's comments have been backed by some, who argue that state institutions must operate within the law and respect the rights of citizens.
The issue has also raised questions about the balance between accountability and the protection of individual rights. President Mahama has previously emphasized the importance of legitimate criticism and political commentary not being criminalized. The incident has highlighted the need for clarity on the roles and responsibilities of state institutions like EOCO.
Key points
- Alexander Afenyo-Markin has urged President John Mahama to control his appointees and ensure state institutions operate within the law.
- The confrontation at the Accra High Court involved Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah and security personnel reportedly linked to EOCO.
- Afenyo-Markin criticized EOCO for allegedly overstepping its mandate and urged the President to intervene.
