Ghana's Parliament has questioned the continued detention of Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). The MP voluntarily reported to EOCO on October 1, 2026, after an Accra High Court issued a warrant for his arrest. Parliament expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding Baffour Awuah's detention, citing the need to respect due process and parliamentary independence.
According to Parliament, the continued detention of Baffour Awuah requires a clear legal basis, especially after he voluntarily reported to EOCO. The MP is being investigated for alleged financial offences involving SIC Life Savings and Loans Company Limited. EOCO is working with the Attorney-General's Office to bring Baffour Awuah before court. Parliament will examine procedures governing the arrest and detention of sitting MPs.
Speaker of Parliament Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin considers the circumstances surrounding Baffour Awuah's detention a serious concern, raising questions about the MP's rights, parliamentary privileges, and the independence of Parliament. The Speaker has been informed that the High Court directed EOCO to enforce the warrant through him, but he has not seen the terms of the directive.
Parliament stressed that once Baffour Awuah voluntarily presented himself to EOCO, any decision to continue holding him in custody ought to have a clear and demonstrable basis in law and necessity. The overnight detention of a sitting MP who cooperated with investigators has raised concerns. Parliament added that continued detention should not become routine or punitive after a person's voluntary appearance.
Parliament clarified that it is not seeking special treatment for Baffour Awuah but rather due constitutional process. The law must take its course if a Member of Parliament is reasonably suspected of committing an offence. MPs perform a constitutional role on behalf of their constituents, and the law contains safeguards to protect the independence of the legislature.
EOCO's investigation concerns alleged financial transactions involving SIC Life Savings and Loans Company Limited, including criminal conspiracy, financial loss, money laundering, and tax-related offences. Baffour Awuah was granted GH¢10m bail after pleading not guilty and is set to reappear in court on October 26.
The detention of Baffour Awuah has sparked concerns about the balance between investigative powers and parliamentary independence. Key issues include the need for clear legal basis for detention, respect for due process, and the protection of parliamentary privileges.
Key points
- Parliament questions EOCO's continued detention of Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah.
- The detention raises concerns about parliamentary independence and due process.
- Baffour Awuah was granted GH¢10m bail and is set to reappear in court on October 26.
