'We have evidence, prosecute now' - Avedzi calls for head of corrupt public officials cited in PAC Reports

Former Chairman of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) James Klutse Avedzi has called for action. He urged the Attorney General to prosecute public officials implicated in Auditor General’s reports. These officials are accused of misappropriating state funds.

The new Director General of the Securities and Exchanges Commission (SEC) agrees. He noted that these cases have lingered too long, despite clear evidence for legal action.

Mr. Avedzi spoke during an interview on Joy News’ PM Express Business Edition last Thursday. He stated that the current Attorney General has much work ahead. Many individuals need prosecution based on PAC’s past recommendations.

He emphasized that while some cases may need more investigation, others are ready for action. The issues in the PAC report are clear, he said. The Auditor General has done extensive work and made recommendations.

The Public Accounts Committee invited those involved to explain themselves. However, their explanations were unconvincing, according to Mr. Avedzi. He believes these individuals must be prosecuted without delay.

He insisted that the Attorney General should not postpone prosecutions any longer. The Attorney General can obtain reports from Parliament easily, he explained. The Clerk of the Public Accounts Committee or Hansard can provide necessary documents.

To facilitate this process, Avedzi assured that the Auditor General’s team is prepared to present evidence in court. They have all working papers from their audits ready for use.

“The Auditor General’s staff will defend their findings in court,” he stated confidently. With a significant backlog of cases and millions at stake, urgency is crucial.

Mr. Avedzi warned that continued inaction could lead to more corruption in the public sector. “The number is huge,” he said, stressing the importance of immediate prosecution.