Deputy Attorney General Dr Justice Srem Sai has reassured the public of the government’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, emphasising that efforts to pursue and hold accountable those suspected of looting state assets will continue with diligence and transparency.
His comments come after a group of heavily armed men, suspected to be operatives from the National Security Secretariat, reportedly stormed the private residence of former Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor, Dr Ernest Addison
The operation, which took place around 5 a.m. at Roman Ridge in Accra on Wednesday, March 19 unfolded while Dr Addison was at home with his family.
Speaking at the launch of a project by GIZ aimed at strengthening the rule of law in Ghana and combating corruption, Dr Sai acknowledged the divided public opinion regarding the handling of the case.
“There are two sides to this,” he stated. “One group believes that the Attorney General is too slow, while another group feels the Attorney General is too aggressive. Last night, searches were conducted at several homes, and the views remain divided.”
Despite these differing opinions, Dr Sai reassured the public that his office is committed to pursuing those suspected of looting state assets, whether money or other property.
“We are working day and night to ensure this is done,” he said. “Most importantly, we are doing so within the framework of the rule of law. There have been instances in the past where suspects were arrested in ways that violated the rule of law, infringing on human rights and breaking other laws. This will not happen under our watch.”
Dr Sai also highlighted concerns about the legal process, pointing out that there have been cases in the past where individuals were put on trial for years without evidence, wasting money on lawyers with no trial taking place.
“We are determined to avoid such situations,” he emphasised. “When I say ‘we,’ I mean my boss, the Attorney General, who firmly believes that no one should be put before the court without sufficient evidence to prosecute them.”
He further explained that what the public might perceive as delays in the process is a result of ensuring that the evidence is solid before taking any case to court.
“We are not in the business of putting people before the court and then seeking permission to look for evidence,” Dr Sai stated.
“We must have sufficient evidence to proceed before the criminal court,” he concluded.
Source: myjoyonline.com