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May 8, 2026
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I authorised OSP to prosecute cases – Former AG Godfred Dame
Policy
Key Points
- Former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame asserts he personally granted the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) authority to prosecute cases during his tenure.
- He argues that Section 4 of the OSP Act and Article 88 of the Constitution recognize the Attorney-General's (AG) prerogative to authorize OSP prosecutions.
- Dame clarified that delegating prosecutorial authority to the OSP is a straightforward legal function, not a constitutional issue, easily done via an executive instrument.
- He criticized current authorities for an apparent reluctance to grant the OSP necessary authorization, suggesting it undermines anti-corruption efforts and leads to judicial challenges.
- His remarks come amidst ongoing debates and recent court rulings affirming that the OSP cannot independently prosecute cases without the AG's authorization.
Why This Matters
This debate is crucial for Ghana's anti-corruption efforts and the independence of key state institutions. The clarity of the OSP's prosecutorial authority directly impacts its effectiveness in fighting corruption, which is vital for good governance and maintaining public trust. The ongoing legal challenges and differing interpretations could either strengthen or weaken Ghana's commitment to accountability and the rule of law.
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