Prosecution Of Political Opponents Outside Courtroom Is Very Distasteful –Minority

**Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin**

The Minority Caucus in Ghana's Parliament has warned Attorney General Dominic Akuritinga Ayine. They want him to change how he handles cases against political opponents of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

The caucus believes convicting suspects publicly before court is wrong. They argue it undermines the rule of law. “The courts of Ghana should decide guilt or innocence,” they stated. This group is affiliated with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP).

On March 24, 2025, they spoke to the Parliamentary Press Corps in Accra. They addressed concerns about unlawful raids on political opponents. The Minority claims the Attorney General’s actions bias public opinion against suspects.

“This is a backward step for our democracy,” said Jerry Ahmed Shaib, 2nd Deputy Minority Whip and MP for Weija. He emphasized that charges should be laid in court first.

They referenced the recent arrest of Kwabena Adu Boahen at Kotoka International Airport. He was paraded and handcuffed after arriving from London. The Minority noted he has been held without charge or trial for over 48 hours.

In response, Attorney General Ayine shared details about Adu Boahen's arrest and detention. He claimed Adu Boahen was under investigation for diverting US$7 million into private accounts while in office.

However, the Minority argues this public prosecution violates legal principles. “If you have evidence, go to court; if not, don’t malign people,” they insisted.

The Minority also condemned aggressive arrests of government officials under President Akufo-Addo’s administration. They urged the government to stop using state power to intimidate political opponents.

These actions violate Article 18 of the Constitution, which protects personal liberty and privacy rights. Recent raids targeted residences of several former officials suspected of corruption.

All but Adu Boahen have since been granted bail as investigations continue. The Minority stated, “These tactics are relics of the coup era.”

They believe such actions have no place in a functioning democracy. Instead, they urge the administration to focus on improving citizens' economic conditions and uphold the rule of law.

By Stephen Larbi