The institution being accused cannot be allowed to investigate itself – Ablakwa to NS

The Member of Parliament for the North Tongu Constituency, Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for an independent investigation into claims by Citi FM and Citi TV Journalist, Caleb Kudah, that he was assaulted by some National Security operatives whiles in their custody.

According to him, the institution being accused cannot be allowed to investigate itself.

Mr. Caleb Kudah, was arrested on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, for filming some abandoned MASLOC cars parked within the premises of the National Security Ministry.

Mrs. Zoe Abu-Baidoo Addo, another Citi Journalist, was also picked up later at the premises of Citi FM/Citi TV in a raid for receiving some files from Caleb Kudah.

Mr. Caleb Kudah after his release recounted harrowing experiences during his time with the National Security operatives.

The host of Backpage on Citi TV also insists he was slapped several times and physically assaulted by the security operatives.

He also said one of the security operatives even kicked him in his groin.

But the Ministry in responding to the allegations promised to take appropriate steps if the allegations are found to be true.

It further disclosed that it has initiated investigations into the matter.

“The Ministry takes with all seriousness, the allegations of manhandling of the two journalists during the interrogation. The Ministry has therefore initiated investigations into the said allegations,” the Ministry said in a statement.

However, Mr. Ablakwa disagrees with the move by the Ministry.

According to him, should the accused institution be allowed to investigate itself, it will “engender confidence and make the public trust the outcome as a credible one.”

“An independent investigation into the alleged brutalities against Caleb and the traumatic experience Zoe was exposed to, not National Security investigating itself, is the only process that will engender confidence and make the public trust the outcome as a credible one.”

“The Akufo-Addo Administration must stop this incestuous charade by showing real commitment.”

The North Tongu legislator made the call in a post via his social media pages on Thursday, May 13, 2021.