Kofi Bentil condemns attempted arrest of Ntim Fordjour; says he's committed no crime

Kofi Bentil is a lawyer and Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa. He criticized the National Intelligence Bureau’s (NIB) attempt to arrest MP Ntim Fordjour at his home. He called the operation unlawful, stating that the MP acted within his rights.

On Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on April 10, Mr. Bentil raised legal concerns about the arrest. He emphasized that even if someone commits a crime, police need a warrant to arrest them. After an arrest, authorities must investigate and present evidence in court.

Mr. Bentil found the NIB's approach troubling. Armed officers allegedly did not identify themselves or show a warrant during the attempted arrest. "Going there without a warrant and armed is just not right," he said.

He defended Ntim Fordjour's freedom of speech as an MP. "Everyone has the right to express themselves," he stated, as long as they do not insult others or commit crimes.

Mr. Bentil referenced Article 41 of Ghana’s Constitution, which encourages citizens to hold public officials accountable. Public officers must respond honestly to questions from citizens, including MPs like Fordjour.

He questioned the basis for Fordjour's attempted arrest. "Asking questions does not constitute a crime," he said. If allegations are false, it is up to authorities to prove them in court.

"If he has made untrue allegations, they must be proven as crimes," Mr. Bentil added. He concluded that Fordjour does not have to cooperate with investigations against him.