ELS: MBN360 Politics
The Executive Director of the Africa Centre for Security and Counterterrorism, Emmanuel Kotin, has urged that politically exposed persons accused of crimes be allowed to go through the due process of the law, cautioning political parties against interfering in or prejudging such cases.
Mr Kotin made the remarks on the GTV Breakfast Show while commenting on the arrest and detention of Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, who is facing allegations related to illegal mining. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years’ imprisonment.
“When politically exposed persons are accused of wrongdoing, let them go through the due process of the courts,” Mr Kotin said. “Political parties should not interfere or act as though they committed the alleged offence alongside the accused. Let the courts determine the matter.”
Read also:
- VALCO not being sold to Ibrahim Mahama – GIADEC
- AMA announces August National Sanitation Day exercise, orders temporary closure of businesses
- No court sittings in Greater Accra on July 28 and 31 as Judiciary marks Supreme Court’s 150th anniversary
- Mahama assures transfer of UGMC to University of Ghana.
- Fuel prices could go up again this week — COPEC
He stressed that the rule of law must apply equally to everyone, regardless of political affiliation or status, adding that public commentary by political parties and their supporters could undermine investigations and judicial proceedings.
The security expert noted that while accountability is essential in the fight against illegal mining, which has caused widespread destruction of water bodies and forest reserves, respecting due process is equally important to maintaining public confidence in state institutions.
“Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done fairly,” he added. “Institutions must be allowed to perform their duties without political pressure from any side.”
