Opinions of Thursday, 8 May 2025
Columnist: www.ghanawebbers.com
Osagyefo Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a private legal practitioner, has criticized former intelligence chief Mr. Kawbena Adu-Boahene. This criticism comes amid Adu-Boahene's ongoing embezzlement case.
Barker-Vormawor argues that Adu-Boahene’s claims about classified operations are weakened by public disclosures. He pointed out on Facebook that Adu-Boahene “refused to inform investigators” about these operations during interrogations. He cited their classified status as the reason for this refusal.
However, Barker-Vormawor noted that these details were later released by Adu-Boahene’s lawyers. He questions the usefulness of this information for citizens without security clearance. He also wonders why Adu-Boahene did not discuss this with the National Security Coordinator or the Attorney-General while on bail.
Barker-Vormawor described this situation as a “red herring.” While he stops short of accusing Adu-Boahene of lying, he insists on independently verifying the operations' truthfulness. He warns that being a former agency head does not protect him from scrutiny after public disclosure.
A key part of Barker-Vormawor’s critique is the lack of evidence linking embezzled funds to the covert operations mentioned by Adu-Boahene. He stated, “There is absolutely no proof” connecting these funds to those activities.
He dismissed claims of immunity under state-security provisions as “preposterous” and likened them to “blackmail justice.” Barker-Vormawor cautioned that unauthorized disclosures could lead to more consequences for Adu-Boahene.
He reminded readers that national security operations can be audited despite being covert. “Covert special-purpose vehicles require approval and can be audited,” he said. No one can spend state funds without accountability.
In conclusion, Barker-Vormawor urged government auditors with security clearances to investigate the disbursements in question. He emphasized that while national security is often covert, it should not be treated as a black hole. Transparency and accountability are essential, especially regarding clandestine state operations.