The Minority in Parliament has accused the Attorney General of overstepping his authority by ordering raids, arrests, and investigations into former government appointees.
The caucus contends that these actions represent an abuse of power and a deviation from the Attorney General’s constitutional role.
According to the Minority, the Attorney General’s primary duty is to provide legal counsel to investigative agencies and support the judiciary in the fair dispensation of justice.
However, they argue that his current approach undermines these principles and threatens the independence of Ghana’s legal system.
Addressing the press on Monday, 24th March, the Second Deputy Minority Whip, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, criticised the Attorney General’s conduct, stating that he was acting beyond his remit.
“The Attorney General is an officer of the court. His interest is to assist the court in dispensing justice when investigators bring their case and evidence. The posture of the new AG undermines this role. He is no longer acting as an officer of the court but instead acting as someone who has conducted his own inquisition, determined the guilt of a suspect, and is seeking to force his views on the court,” he asserted.
The Minority further condemned the recent raid on the residence of the former Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr Ernest Addison, describing it as unlawful.
They revealed that the National Security Coordinator had personally apologised to Dr Addison, a move they claim affirms the illegality of the operation.
Raising questions about the conduct of the security operatives, Shaib stated: “If indeed a court-issued warrant existed, why was it not presented to Dr Addison before or during the raid? Why was force used to overpower his private security? Why was the CCTV camera dismantled and taken away? Transparency is a hallmark that ensures lawful enforcement.”
He emphasised that such operations cast doubt on the legality and intent of the government’s actions. “No amount of legal or public relations spin can undo the facts. Dr Addison’s home was raided under highly questionable circumstances. If their actions were truly lawful and above board, why did the National Security Coordinator feel compelled to apologise? If there was no wrongdoing, what exactly was the apology for?” he questioned.
