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The Attorney General (AG) has been accused by a minority in Parliament of abusing his authority by ordering raids, making arrests, and investigating past government appointments.
The caucus asserts that the attorney general’s responsibilities include assisting the court in enforcing the law and advising investigative agencies on legal issues.
They argue that his current actions go against this duty.
Second Deputy Minority Whip Jerry Ahmed Shaib called on the Attorney General to immediately halt such actions in a statement to the media on Monday, March 24.
“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 A-G undermines this rule. 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.
“The practice undermines the role of the attorney general and undermines the administration of justice. All well-meaning voices that respect the operations of the rule of law should call on the attorney general to put an end to this immediately,” Mr Ahmed Shaib said.
“If indeed a court-issued warrant existed, why was it not presented to Dr Addison before or during the raid? Why was the force used to overpower his private security? Why was the CCTV camera dismantled and taken away? Transparency is a hallmark that ensures lawful enforcement.
“The failure to follow basic procedures causes doubt on the legality and intent of the operations. No amount of legal, or public relations spin can undo the fact. 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, find it necessary to call and apologise to Dr Addison, via the phone of Richard Jakpa? If there was no wrongdoing with the conduct of the security officers, what exactly was the apology for?” he quizzed.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
