Former Secretary to the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM), Mr Charles Cromwell Nanabanyin Onuawonto Bissue, has issued a strongly-worded response to a writ filed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP).
The OSP is seeking to prosecute Mr Bissue and Andy Thomas Owusu for alleged corruption and misuse of public office for profit.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, April 29, Mr Bissue confirmed that the OSP had initiated legal proceedings related to the controversial Galamsey Fraud documentary published by investigative outfit Tiger Eye P.I. in 2019.
Rejecting the accusations, Mr Bissue said he has always acting within the confines of the laws of Ghana.
“I categorically assert that I have always acted in full compliance with both the legal and ethical obligations of the office I held and the laws of the Republic of Ghana. Any suggestion of misconduct is baseless and will be vigorously challenged through due process.”
He further called for transparency in the trial, urging the OSP to present a complete, unedited, and unaltered version of the investigative video forming the basis of the prosecution. According to him, this is critical to ensure that the truth is fully revealed, without distortion.
Mr Bissue also noted the timing of the case, highlighting that the prosecution is being pursued under a new administration, different from the one in which he served.
He emphasised the importance of fairness and due process on the part the OSP.
“It is my sincere hope that this process will allow all parties an equitable opportunity to present evidence and that the facts will be evaluated fairly, without bias.”
Reaffirming his intention to fully cooperate with the legal process, Mr Bissue appealed for public restraint and trust in the judicial system.
“I urge the public to respect the legal process and refrain from premature judgments. The people of Ghana deserve transparency, accountability, and a resolution rooted in the rule of law,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Mr Bissue has expressed confidence in the judiciary, saying he believes the matter will be resolved impartially and conclusively.
