Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni has called on President John Dramani Mahama to act decisively on revelations made by the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, that some NDC lawyers are attempting to “cut deals” for persons facing prosecution.
Mr. Awuni described the development as a “scandal” that must not be allowed to fester, warning that inaction could erode public trust in the government’s anti-corruption agenda.
“Ghana cannot afford another business as usual,” he wrote on Facebook, urging President Mahama to “crack the whip” and protect his legacy.
Mr. Kwetey, addressing the 5th Annual General Conference of NDC Lawyers, alleged that while the public is demanding justice for corruption-related cases, some party members are acting as conduits to shield offenders.
“Despite the fact that pleas and pressure are coming from the public that punishment has to be meted out, some among us are busy trying to cut deals with people who are supposed to be prosecuted,” he said.
Though he stopped short of naming individuals, the former Agriculture Minister stressed that such practices undermine the very basis of the NDC’s electoral victory.
“Think again. This victory was achieved largely because the people of Ghana wanted the right thing done. Not for deals to be cut,” he warned.
His comments coincide with ongoing work by the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) committee, set up to recover stolen public funds. Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Srem Sai has defended the pace of prosecutions, explaining that while public impatience is understandable, due process cannot be bypassed.
Mr. Awuni recalled his earlier caution to President Mahama in an open letter, warning that ORAL could become a “landmine” for his administration if not handled with utmost integrity.
“With Fiifi Kwetey’s revelation, which may not be news to the president, Mahama must act swiftly. Those who have stolen millions can easily cut deals if signs of weakness emerge,” he wrote.
He concluded that cracking down on internal sabotage is critical if President Mahama’s anti-corruption drive is to succeed.
