Majority Chief Whip and South Dayi MP Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor has urged Parliament to avoid direct involvement in investigating the alleged bribery scandal surrounding the Aksa power deal. He advocates for an expert-led inquiry to ensure impartiality and effectiveness.
Mr. Dafeamekpor stated that relevant state institutions should spearhead the investigation. He proposed a carefully constituted committee of experts and civil society representatives to support efforts in establishing the facts. This approach aims to prevent potential conflicts of interest given Parliament's role in approving public contracts.
This call for an independent probe comes as Ghana faces renewed scrutiny over the Aksa power transaction. Allegations of bribery involving former Goldman Sachs banker Asante Kwaku Berko have resurfaced. The scandal highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in large public procurement processes within Ghana's energy sector. Previous incidents of alleged corruption in power deals have often led to public outcry and demands for thorough investigations.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on August 15, Mr. Dafeamekpor emphasized Parliament's potential conflict of interest. He stated, “As for Parliament, it should distance itself. As a committee of inquiry. Yes.” He argued that Parliament's oversight role in approving such contracts makes direct investigation problematic. This stance reflects a broader concern about institutional integrity in high-profile corruption cases.
Mr. Dafeamekpor proposed a committee comprising representatives from key state and civil society bodies. This includes the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), the Attorney-General’s Office, the judiciary, and relevant civil society organisations. He believes this composition would leverage existing expertise and information. The OSP has already indicated providing assistance to US authorities on aspects of the matter. This suggests that relevant material may already be available to investigators. Such collaboration could streamline the inquiry process and avoid starting from scratch. The Attorney-General’s Office and the OSP appear to have been working together on the matter, which Mr. Dafeamekpor sees as a positive development.
The implications of this recommendation are significant for Ghana's governance and economic landscape. An expert-led inquiry could bolster public confidence in the fight against corruption. It could also set a precedent for handling future allegations involving high-value public contracts. Decision-makers will closely watch how this proposal is received and implemented. The outcome could influence investor perception of Ghana's business environment and commitment to rule of law. A transparent and thorough investigation is crucial for maintaining market stability and attracting foreign direct investment. The integrity of public officials and the processes governing large infrastructure projects remain paramount for Ghana's economic development.