Due Process Fails When Authorization Precedes Investigation, Gyampo Warns Akufo-Addo

Professor Ransford Gyampo, a political science lecturer at the University of Ghana, has cautioned President Nana Akufo-Addo that granting authorization for investigations before they commence undermines the principles of due process. In a letter addressed to the President, Gyampo expressed concern over the recent directive from the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to investigative journalists, Anas Aremeyaw Anas and Edward Adeti, to provide evidence for ongoing corruption probes. “Due process is fundamentally violated when the targets of investigations are authorized in advance to submit evidence against themselves,” Gyampo wrote. “This creates a situation where the accused are effectively put on trial before they have been formally charged with any wrongdoing.” The professor argued that such a practice undermines the presumption of innocence and deprives individuals of their right to a fair hearing. He pointed out that it is the responsibility of the authorities to gather evidence and present it before a court of law, not the accused. “Authorizing investigations in advance raises questions about the impartiality of the process,” Gyampo stated. “It suggests that the authorities have prejudged the case and are seeking to vilify the accused rather than gather objective evidence.” He urged President Akufo-Addo to intervene and ensure that due process is followed in all investigations, regardless of the individuals involved. He emphasized the need for an impartial and independent justice system that adheres to the rule of law. “The integrity of our democracy depends on the fair administration of justice,” Gyampo concluded. “We must not allow political expediency to compromise the principles of due process that are essential for a civilized society.” His letter has sparked a debate about the balance between the need for investigations and the protection of individual rights in Ghana. Critics argue that it is impractical to wait until after charges are filed before obtaining evidence, while others maintain that due process must be upheld even at the cost of efficiency.Due Process Compromised by Presidential Interference

Due Process Compromised by Presidential Interference

Ransford Gyampo, a senior lecturer at the University of Ghana, has criticized President Nana Akufo-Addo for granting clearance to individuals facing investigations, undermining due process. Professor Gyampo’s comments stem from the President’s recent praise for Cecilia Dapaah, Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, despite allegations against her. Gyampo argues that Akufo-Addo’s endorsement indicates a lack of commitment to fair and impartial investigations. Gyampo also highlighted the President’s comments on the fight against corruption, emphasizing the importance of access to information and the passage of the Right to Information Act. However, he questioned the President’s sincerity given the ongoing ambulance procurement trial, where a High Court judge recommended that Attorney General Godfred Dame abstain due to potential bias. Gyampo believes that Akufo-Addo’s claims about upholding due process are hollow when viewed against his actions. He points out that the President cannot publicly profess belief in due process while privately clearing individuals from investigations. The lecturer further criticizes the President’s use of the “Anas principle” in the fight against corruption, questioning its efficacy. He suggests that the President’s praise for Dame was aimed at a “captured” audience and would not have been made before critical minds. Gyampo’s remarks underscore the importance of maintaining due process and avoiding presidential interference in investigations. He believes that such actions undermine the credibility of the government’s anti-corruption efforts and sow confusion among Ghanaians about the effectiveness of different administrations in tackling corruption.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.Renowned Ghanaian academic, Professor Ransford Gyampo, has expressed concern over the potential shortcomings of the due process system in Ghana when the person under investigation is authorized in advance. In a statement addressed to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Professor Gyampo highlighted the crucial need for impartiality and fairness in investigations to ensure the integrity and credibility of the process. “Due process fails once the person under investigation is authorized in advance,” Professor Gyampo asserted. He explained that such authorization could create biases and compromise the objectivity of the investigation. The professor emphasized that due process requires that all individuals be treated equally before the law, regardless of their position or authority. He urged the government to uphold this principle to maintain public trust and confidence in the justice system. Professor Gyampo’s statement comes amid growing concerns about the fairness and transparency of investigations involving individuals in positions of power. He stressed the importance of adhering to established protocols and ensuring that the accused have the opportunity to defend themselves fairly. “Due process is not just a matter of following procedures, but also ensuring that the person under investigation is accorded the fullest measure of fairness,” Professor Gyampo concluded. His statement serves as a timely reminder of the imperative to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their status or affiliation.