Accra, Ghana – March 24, 2025
The Minority in Parliament has strongly condemned what it describes as a rising trend of unlawful raids and political intimidation against former government officials by state security agencies. Addressing a press conference in Parliament, the Second Deputy Minority Whip, Hon. Jerry Ahmed Shaib, criticized the conduct of National Security operatives, particularly in the recent raid on the residence of the immediate past Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Ernest Addison.
According to the Minority, these actions represent an abuse of power and a violation of fundamental human rights. Hon. Shaib alleged that security forces, particularly the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) and National Security, are being used to target political opponents rather than focusing on their mandate of ensuring national security.
“The mandate given to law enforcement and security agencies is to serve the public interest, not to act on behalf of political actors seeking retribution or to suppress dissenting voices,” he stated.
The Minority also accused the Attorney General of overstepping his constitutional role by allegedly directing investigations and ordering arrests, rather than acting as an impartial legal advisor. They argued that the Attorney General’s involvement in investigative processes compromises the fairness of legal proceedings and undermines the judiciary.
The press conference highlighted several incidents where former government officials reportedly faced aggressive raids, arrests, and interrogations. Among those affected are former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta, whose residence was allegedly searched without a warrant; former Energy Minister John Peter Amewu; and former Director of Operations at Jubilee House, Lord Oblitey Commey, whose vehicles were seized.
Hon. Shaib suggested that the government is using these tactics as a diversion from pressing economic and governance issues, including challenges with the national budget and the ongoing power crisis, commonly referred to as “Dumsor.”
“These arrests, detentions, midnight home raids, and threats are relics of the coup era and have no place in a functioning democracy,” he added.
The Minority called on civil society organizations, the media, and the general public to resist what they described as the “weaponization of state institutions” for political ends. They emphasized the need for transparency, due process, and respect for human rights, urging the government to focus on fulfilling its promises to improve citizens’ welfare instead of engaging in political intimidation.
Ghana’s democratic stability, they warned, could be at risk if such trends continue.
Source: Clement Akoloh||parliamentnews360.com
