Martin Kpebu ‘chases’ EOCO boss over lack of information on Wontumi's case
Prominent Ghanaian lawyer and anti-corruption advocate, Martin Kpebu, has intensified pressure on the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO), publicly demanding answers from its Executive Director, Maame Yaa Tiwaa Addo-Danquah, regarding the stalled investigation into allegations against New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Wontumi.
Kpebu's campaign centers on a perceived lack of transparency and action concerning serious corruption allegations leveled against Chairman Wontumi. These allegations, widely publicized, involve potential conflict of interest and impropriety in mining concessions and state property acquisition. Despite public outcry and formal requests for investigation, EOCO's handling of the matter has been characterized by Kpebu as opaque and sluggish, bordering on deliberate inaction.
Frustrated by EOCO's silence, Kpebu escalated his efforts. On July 1st, 2024, he submitted a formal request under Ghana's Right to Information (RTI) Act, specifically demanding details from Maame Tiwaa. He sought information on the current status of the investigation, the specific allegations under scrutiny, any actions taken, reasons for any delays, and crucially, whether the investigation had been concluded or discontinued.
The core of Kpebu's public "chase" stems from EOCO's failure to respond to this RTI request within the legally mandated timeframe. This silence, interpreted as stonewalling, has fueled Kpebu's public criticism. He has taken to media platforms, questioning EOCO's commitment to fighting corruption without fear or favor, especially when powerful political figures are involved. His direct challenge to Maame Tiwaa is clear: break the silence and provide the public with the information they are legally entitled to.
"This deafening silence from EOCO is unacceptable," Kpebu has argued, framing the issue as a critical test for Ghana's anti-corruption institutions. "The public has a right to know if allegations against a prominent party chairman are being seriously investigated or swept under the carpet. EOCO's lack of response to a simple RTI request only fuels suspicion."
Kpebu has threatened legal action to compel EOCO's compliance if the information remains forthcoming. His persistent public pressure spotlights a crucial battle for accountability: can Ghana's key investigative agencies withstand political pressure and operate transparently? Until EOCO and Maame Tiwaa Addo-Danquah break their silence on the Wontumi case, Martin Kpebu's determined "chase" for answers will continue to resonate, underscoring deep public concern over the integrity of the fight against corruption.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0