Don’t rely on Ken Ofori-Atta to incriminate himself - Manhyia South MP tells OSP

The Manhyia South MP believes the Special Prosecutor needs a new strategy. He argues that the case against Ken Ofori-Atta should not rely on him incriminating himself.

Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah stated that Ghana’s Constitution protects suspects from self-incrimination. He spoke on Joy News’ PM Express on June 3.

The MP claims the Special Prosecutor's Office is overstepping its authority. He noted that they do not need Ofori-Atta's arrest to proceed with their case.

Baffour Awuah emphasized that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) should build an independent case. He said, “If they need Ofori-Atta’s presence to establish a prima facie case, their case is weak.”

He pointed out that without Ofori-Atta's input, they cannot move forward. The right to remain silent is guaranteed by law, he added.

“Ken has a right not to incriminate himself,” he reminded viewers. He questioned what would happen if Ofori-Atta remained silent during questioning.

Baffour Awuah warned this approach reveals a fundamental weakness in the investigation. If silence stalls the process, something is wrong with their foundation.

He criticized the OSP’s method as rigid and counterproductive. The MP urged them to change their strategy and be more flexible.

He suggested they could use tactics like baiting him instead of direct confrontation. “If a dishonest person wants to race with you, tell him to take the lead,” he said.

Baffour Awuah noted that it seems Ken and his lawyers are controlling the situation. Investigators sometimes need to play along and not show force immediately.

Effective investigators can pretend to tag along until they catch someone off guard. For him, achieving results should be more important than seeking headlines.

His comments come amid criticism of how the Special Prosecutor has handled this matter, especially after declaring Ofori-Atta wanted.

Baffour Awuah concluded that no suspect should be forced to build their own case for prosecution.