The Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA) has joined a growing chorus of voices demanding the resignation or dismissal of Ghana’s Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame.
This call to action comes in the wake of a leaked phone conversation that allegedly implicates Mr. Dame in pressuring Mr. Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ongoing ambulance case, to implicate Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson.
In a strongly worded statement, ASEPA’s Executive Director, Mr. Mensah Thompson, condemned the actions of the Attorney General, stating that they undermine efforts to promote social equality, prevent human rights violations, and ensure justice. He emphasized that such conduct erodes public trust in the judicial system and damages Ghana’s international reputation.
“We are, therefore, adding our voice to the many voices calling on the AG to resign or be sacked by the president, a touted human rights lawyer who claims he has fought on the side of people on the other side of the AG’s vicious venom.”
“Even more worrying than the conduct of the Attorney General is the silence of the Ghana Bar Association and the Presidency, reducing this troubling development to a banter between the two main political parties.”
Mr. Mensah Thompson, ASEPA’s Executive Director
ASEPA also expressed disappointment at the silence of the Ghana Bar Association and the Presidency, urging them to take a definitive stance on the matter. The organization’s statement highlighted the critical role these institutions play in upholding justice and maintaining public confidence in the legal system.
“It will be a further dent in the image of the country if the Bar Association never finds its often-skewed ruthless voice in this ongoing spectacle. Everyone is watching,” the statement warned.
Implications for Ghana’s International Standing
The scandal has broader implications beyond the immediate political fallout. ASEPA underscored that the Attorney General’s actions have significantly tarnished Ghana’s reputation, particularly in the eyes of international organizations that provide substantial support to civil society organizations (CSOs) and governmental agencies.
“As a CSO, we are aware of the millions of dollars international organizations spend in our country every year to support CSOs and governmental agencies to promote social equality, prevent human rights violations, and promote justice delivery.”
“The AG’s conduct has, therefore, undermined the steady progress we have made in these areas of key interest to our development partners and the international community at large and therefore deserves nothing but utter condemnation from all including the Bar Association and other stakeholders of the judiciary.”
Mr. Mensah Thompson, ASEPA’s Executive Director
Public and Political Reactions
The leaked conversation has sparked intense public debate, with many Ghanaians expressing their frustration and disappointment over the perceived misuse of power by the Attorney General. The incident has amplified calls for greater transparency and accountability within the government, particularly in the judicial and legal sectors.
Political analysts suggested that this scandal could have lasting repercussions for the current administration, especially if decisive action is not taken promptly. The public’s trust in the justice system is paramount, and any perception of bias or corruption can severely undermine the rule of law and democratic governance.
Leaked Conversation and Its Aftermath
The controversy stems from a leaked phone call in which Mr. Dame purportedly coerced Mr. Jakpa into providing evidence against Dr. Ato Forson. This scandal has prompted widespread outrage and calls for accountability, with many accusing the Attorney General of ethical misconduct and political manipulation.
Dr. Ato Forson, a former Deputy Finance Minister and the current Minority Leader, is on trial for his alleged role in procuring faulty ambulances for Ghana. The case has been a focal point of public debate, with significant implications for the nation’s political landscape and judicial integrity.
The Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability’s call for the resignation or dismissal of Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame adds significant weight to the growing demand for accountability in Ghana’s legal and political spheres.
As the nation grapples with the fallout from the leaked conversation, the response of key institutions like the Ghana Bar Association and the Presidency will be crucial in determining the path forward.
The unfolding events serve as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity and transparency in public office, and the critical need for vigilance in protecting the principles of justice and equality.
