Amanda Clinton warns executive gatekeeping is the real danger in OSP crisis
via GhanaWeb2 min read
Legal practitioner Amanda Clinton has stated that the primary threat from the constitutional dispute over the Office of the Special Prosecutor OSP is not a legal technicality, but rather the risk of executive gatekeeping undermining Ghana's anti-corruption framework. Speaking on TV3 on April 21, 2026, Clinton acknowledged that the law appears to position the OSP as subordinate to the Attorney General, a stance she expects the Supreme Court to affirm. However, Clinton emphasized that her deeper concern lies in the practical implications of channeling prosecutorial power through a political appointee who is part of the Cabinet and has political affiliations. She questioned whether such an individual would hold corrupt associates accountable or protect them, likening the situation to George Orwell's Animal Farm and warning of a shift from institutional independence to dependence. Clinton also highlighted a long-standing structural concern regarding the fusion of the Attorney General's Department with the Ministry of Justice, which she believes concentrates too much power. She clarified that her concerns are not specific to the current administration but apply to any government, as the structural issue predates and outlives any single presidency. Clinton urged the Supreme Court to consider the spirit behind Article 88 of the Constitution and the creation of the OSP, not just the letter of the law, warning that a narrow interpretation could set Ghana's anti-corruption efforts back
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Must ReadThe Government of Ghana has summoned South African High Commissioner Thando Dalamba to express strong concern over reported xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaian nationals in South Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally registered Ghana's concerns following viral videos and reports of intimidation and harassment against foreigners. One incident in KwaZulu-Natal Province reportedly involved a Ghanaian legal resident being confronted and told to leave South Africa. Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa described such conduct as unacceptable, emphasizing that it undermines the dignity and rights of law-abiding residents. He also raised concerns about rising tensions and referenced past xenophobic violence in South Africa. Ghana formally protested and called for immediate measures to protect its citizens and other foreign nationals, including stronger security interventions. The Acting High Commissioner acknowledged Ghana's concerns and assured that the South African government is actively addressing the situation, with law enforcement agencies monitoring developments and working to restore calm.
Must ReadThe High Court has adjourned the case involving Ken Ofori-Atta and seven co-accused to May 26, 2026. This adjournment is pending the outcome of an appeal filed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor OSP. The OSP has filed a stay of execution and a notice of appeal against a High Court ruling that directed the Attorney General to take over prosecutions initiated by the OSP. The ruling stated that the OSP must obtain specific authority under its establishing Act to initiate prosecutions, otherwise they are invalid. The application for the stay of execution is scheduled to be heard on May 21, 2026. Ken Ofori-Atta, Strategic Mobilisation Limited SML, and six others are facing trial for corruption and corruption-related offenses. Ken Ofori-Atta and his former Chief of Staff, Ernest Akore, are reportedly at large, with extradition proceedings and summons initiated in the United States.
Must ReadShaibu Mahama, Chairman of Parliament’s Constitutional and Legal Affairs Committee, described former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s decision not to assent to the Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2021, also known as the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, as a “blessing in disguise.” In a video shared by Channel One TV on April 23, 2026, Mahama suggested that the delay allows lawmakers to revisit and strengthen the proposed legislation. He stated that the time elapsed since the bill's introduction has led to deeper reflections and a broader understanding of its implications, noting that "many things have changed." Mahama explained that Parliament now has the chance to address gaps overlooked in earlier deliberations, particularly before the previous Parliament lapsed. He emphasized the opportunity to incorporate, delete, amend, and reshape the bill, assuring that ongoing reviews would consider the rights of all individuals to avoid infringing on constitutional freedoms. Lawmakers will also examine existing legislation to create a more comprehensive and legally sound framework. Discussions on the bill have resumed, indicating a renewed effort to refine and potentially reintroduce it in Parliament.
Must ReadPaul Tawiah Quaye, former Inspector General of Police IGP for the Ghana Police Service, has died at the age of 73. He passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Sources close to his family confirmed his death, noting he had been unwell, leading to his absence from public life. Born on May 6, 1953, Quaye was appointed IGP by the late President John Evans Atta Mills and served as head of the Ghana Police Service from May 16, 2009, to February 5, 2013. The family is expected to release details regarding his burial and funeral arrangements.