Lawmaker Martin Kpebu has expressed concerns over the detention of his colleague, Baffour Awuah, by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO). Kpebu believes that keeping Awuah in custody does not aid EOCO's investigation. He made these comments on TV3's Key Points program on October 3. Kpebu questioned the logic behind EOCO's actions, suggesting that if Awuah had intended to abscond, he would not have reported to EOCO. This criticism comes as EOCO continues its investigation into Awuah.
Baffour Awuah, the Manhyia South Lawmaker, was detained by EOCO on October 1, 2026, after voluntarily surrendering. EOCO has been investigating Awuah since February 2026. According to Kpebu, Awuah's detention is unnecessary, given that he has been aware of the case and has not attempted to flee. Kpebu emphasized that the Supreme Court has ruled that every offense is bailable, further questioning the justification for Awuah's detention. He urged EOCO to consider the constitutional implications of their actions.
In response to Kpebu's comments, EOCO released a statement on October 2, 2026, confirming that Awuah is cooperating with their investigation. EOCO is working with the Office of the Attorney-General to meet constitutional timelines and plans to bring Awuah before a weekend court. The organization also dismissed reports that Awuah had been granted a GH₵50 million bail. According to EOCO, they are following the necessary investigative, procedural, and operational processes in handling Awuah's case.
Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin visited Awuah on October 2, 2026, and expressed concerns over the government's actions. Afenyo-Markin likened the NDC government's conduct to a police officer determined to arrest a driver at all costs. He accused the government of deliberately finding faults to persecute opposition members, including Awuah. Afenyo-Markin believes that Awuah is being targeted because of his vocal stance as an NPP member in Parliament.
Afenyo-Markin also alleged that the government is using corruption tags to silence critics, including social media activists. He warned that this approach may make it difficult for moderate voices within the NPP to preach restraint. Afenyo-Markin called on NPP members to stay united and focused on the party's future. He challenged the NDC to point to a defining legacy project of President John Dramani Mahama by 2028.
During his visit, Afenyo-Markin found Awuah to be in high spirits despite his situation. He encouraged Awuah by reminding him that the party's forebears suffered more. Afenyo-Markin expressed confidence that the NPP will overcome this challenge. He emphasized the need for unity within the party to achieve their goals.
The detention of Baffour Awuah has sparked concerns about the government's approach to investigating and prosecuting opposition members. Kpebu's criticism of EOCO's actions highlights the need for transparency and accountability in the investigative process. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how EOCO will balance its investigative needs with the rights of the accused.
Key points
- Lawmaker Martin Kpebu criticizes EOCO's detention of Baffour Awuah.
- Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin accuses the government of persecuting opposition members.
- EOCO continues its investigation into Baffour Awuah despite criticism.
