Omanghana
The Minority Caucus in Ghana’s Parliament has accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of orchestrating what it describes as a “systematic, multi-front war” to weaken the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). The allegations were made during a press conference titled “The Anatomy of a Conspiracy,” where the opposition raised concerns about the future independence of the country’s anti-corruption framework.
Speaking at the briefing, Alhassan Tampuli, Deputy Ranking Member of the Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee, claimed that the government is attempting to reassert executive control over anti-corruption prosecutions. His comments come in the wake of a High Court ruling on April 15, 2026, which determined that the OSP does not have independent authority to prosecute criminal cases without direction from the Attorney-General.
According to the Minority, the ruling—if upheld—would effectively place anti-corruption prosecutions back under the authority of the Attorney-General, a position they argue is subject to executive influence since it serves at the pleasure of the President. They contend that this development undermines the very purpose for which the OSP was created, which is to operate independently in investigating and prosecuting corruption-related offenses.
The caucus also criticized the judiciary, arguing that the High Court exceeded its jurisdiction. They insist that only the Supreme Court has the constitutional authority to interpret the validity of laws such as the OSP Act, and therefore view the ruling as a legal overreach that threatens institutional independence.
In addition, the Minority described the Attorney-General’s position in court—where arguments were made against the OSP’s independent prosecutorial powers—as a “constitutional betrayal.” They further alleged that there has been a pattern of intimidation aimed at weakening the office, citing the arrest of legal practitioner Martin Kpebu in December 2025 as an example of what they believe is a broader strategy to destabilize the anti-corruption body.
Amid what they termed an “OSP under siege,” the Minority has outlined a series of demands. They are calling for the Attorney-General to be summoned before Parliament to clarify his position on the independence of the OSP. They have also urged the OSP to immediately appeal the High Court ruling and seek a stay of execution to prevent its enforcement while the matter is reviewed. Additionally, they are asking President John Mahama to publicly state his stance on the future and autonomy of the office.
However, not all observers agree with the Minority’s claims. During discussions on the Asaase Breakfast Show, some commentators dismissed the accusations as political rhetoric, suggesting that the opposition should also reflect on its own track record in office. Meanwhile, the OSP continues its ongoing investigations, including cases involving prominent political figures such as Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
The controversy highlights growing political tensions over the role and independence of key anti-corruption institutions in Ghana, raising broader questions about accountability, governance, and the balance of power between the executive and independent state bodies.
Source: Omanghana
