Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng asserts OSP’s mandate to probe corruption cases outside Ghana

Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng has emphasized that his office has the mandate to investigate and prosecute corruption cases committed in foreign countries if they are corruption-related offenses committed by Ghanaian nationals or against Ghanaian nationals. Speaking at the ICC FraudNet’s 37th International Conference & Meeting in Accra, Mr.Agyebeng stressed that the reach of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) extends beyond the borders of Ghana.

The theme of the conference was ‘State Capture & Corruption’. The Special Prosecutor noted that state capture, corruption, and fraud have become a “collective pandemic” in Africa, with their effects felt throughout society. However, Mr. Agyebeng remains optimistic that these issues can be tackled effectively and efficiently.

The Special Prosecutor pointed out that no matter how well-designed and well-intentioned anti-corruption agencies are, they cannot achieve much on their own in-country without the necessary cooperation from foreign partners. He also noted that state capture, corruption, fraud, and asset recovery are transboundary and cross-border issues that require international cooperation.

Mr. Agyebeng’s statements come at a time when Ghana has been listed among the countries that have demonstrated the most significant improvements in fighting corruption, according to Transparency International’s 2020 Corruption Perception Index (CPI). The Special Prosecutor’s assertion, however, underscores the need for continued vigilance and the development of robust mechanisms to combat corruption in all its forms.

It is encouraging to see that the OSP is taking a proactive approach to corruption, and its willingness to investigate cases beyond Ghana’s borders is an indication of the seriousness with which it takes its mandate. However, it is important to note that international cooperation is vital to the success of such efforts, and Ghana must continue to engage with its foreign partners to tackle the issue of corruption effectively.

For the most part, Mr. Agyebeng’s speech highlights the need for a coordinated effort to combat corruption, as the effects of corruption and state capture are far-reaching and transboundary. It is crucial for the OSP to work with other anti-corruption agencies and foreign partners to ensure that corruption is stamped out at all levels. This is the only way Ghana can achieve sustainable economic growth and development.

Source: 3news.com