GACC Calls for Clear Public Understanding at Abuakwa South Stakeholders Meeting

Madam Beauty Emefa Narteh, Executive Secretary of the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition (GACC), has emphasized the need for citizens to clearly understand the mandate of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). She made this known while addressing participants at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Abuakwa South District Assembly Hall, Kibi.

Speaking at the event, Madam Narteh explained that many Ghanaians still misunderstand the scope of the OSP’s work, often assuming it is responsible for all corruption-related cases in the country. She noted that it is important for the public to know exactly who the OSP can investigate and prosecute, and what offenses fall under its legal mandate. According to her presentation, the OSP is empowered to investigate and prosecute a wide range of individuals, including public officials, politically exposed persons (PEPs), private individuals, and legal persons such as companies. She explained that politically exposed persons include individuals closely connected to high-ranking government officials, who are considered high-risk for corruption. Companies, she added, can also be prosecuted separately from their owners because they are recognized as independent legal entities under Ghana’s company laws.

Madam Narteh further highlighted that the OSP operates under specific legal boundaries. Offenses within its jurisdiction fall under the Criminal Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29) and include dishonest receiving, extortion through blackmail, and corruption offenses captured under Section 239.She also clarified that not all corruption-related offenses are handled by the OSP. Using the recent case involving former Minister Cecilia as an example, she noted that allegations of money laundering are handled by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) under Ghanaian law. This distinction, she said, explains why the OSP transferred the case to EOCO, even though money laundering is considered part of corruption under international conventions.

Madam Narteh urged citizens to familiarize themselves with the different roles of Ghana’s anti-corruption agencies to avoid public misconceptions and to strengthen accountability efforts. She reaffirmed GACC’s commitment to educating communities across the country on governance, transparency, and the proper functioning of state institutions.

By: Paulina Armah/Radio1