President Akufo-Addo has asserted that he has refrained from intervening in the ongoing investigation involving former Sanitation and Water Resources Minister, Cecilia Abena Dappah.
Emphasizing the independence of the Special Prosecutor throughout the investigations, President Akufo-Addo clarified his position during the launch of Ghana’s National Anti-Corruption Action Plan evaluation at the Jubilee House in Accra on Thursday.
Addressing the gathering, President Akufo-Addo stated unequivocally that the executive branch does not interfere in investigations of his appointees.
He highlighted the absence of evidence or allegations suggesting any attempt by the executive to influence the outcomes of these investigations. The President cited the recent case involving the former Minister for Sanitation, Cecilia Abena Dapaah, as a clear example.
President Akufo-Addo emphasized the unprecedented nature of subjecting numerous officials in his administration to investigations and inquiries, showcasing the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
He contrasted this with instances in the previous Mahama administration, citing individuals like William Matthew Tetteh Tevi, Alhaji Salifu Osman, and Eugene Baffour Bonney, who were tried and convicted in the $4 million NCA’s scandal.
Additionally, figures like Dr. Stephen Opuni, the former CEO of COCOBOD, and the Honourable Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader, are currently facing trial.
“No evidence or allegation has been forthcoming that the executive has made any attempt to influence the outcome of any of these investigations. The latest episode involving the former Minister for Sanitation, the Honourable Cecilia Abena Dapaah, is evident for all to see.
“I am not aware of any government in the Fourth Republic subjecting so many of its officials to such investigations and enquiries.”
“At the same time, several officials in the previous Mahama administration such as William Matthew Tetteh Tevi, Alhaji Salifu Osman, and Eugene Baffour Bonney in the $ 4 million NCA’s scandal have been tried and convicted of various corruption-related offences and several other including Dr Stephen Opuni, the former CEO of COCOBOD and the Honourable Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader are standing trial as we speak,” he said.