The Chief Justice of Ghana, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkornoo, has taken a significant step in the ongoing controversy surrounding Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng. Following a petition submitted by former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu, seeking Agyebeng’s removal from office, the CJ has referred the matter to Agyebeng himself for his response.
The petition, dated April 30, 2024, raises concerns about the procurement process for vehicles for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and alleges misconduct by Agyebeng related to judges and the administration of justice. Amidu has also criticized Agyebeng for his lack of experience in the job and accused him of shielding certain individuals under the OSP’s investigative radar.
In a letter to Agyebeng, the Chief Justice requested his comments on the matters raised in the petition to determine if there is sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case. The letter stated, “Kindly provide your comments on the matters raised to enable the Honourable Chief Justice to determine if a prima facie case has been made out.”
The call for Agyebeng’s removal is made under section 15 of the Office of Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959), which outlines the grounds and processes for the removal of a Special Prosecutor. Allegations against Agyebeng include violations of citizens’ rights through arrests and detentions, violations of the right to information, and improper appointments of personnel to the office.
The Accra Times is closely monitoring this developing story as the fate of Special Prosecutor Agyebeng hangs in the balance.