OSP Ordered To Suspend Duties And Hand Over To NIB After Ken Ofori-Atta’s New Address

Ghana’s anti-corruption efforts have reportedly been thrown into uncertainty following claims that the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has been directed to suspend its operations and transfer its responsibilities to the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB). The alleged directive has generated debate over the future of the country’s independent anti-corruption institution.

Reports suggest that the OSP has been instructed to halt its investigative and administrative activities temporarily while transferring sensitive case files and related responsibilities to the NIB. However, the circumstances surrounding the reported order and its legal basis remain unclear from the information provided.

The controversy reportedly intensified after former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta delivered a public address criticising the OSP’s operations. He allegedly accused the office of pursuing politically motivated investigations and argued that inquiries involving prominent individuals had caused unnecessary embarrassment.

The appearance of the reported directive shortly after Ofori-Atta’s remarks has prompted questions about whether the developments are connected. However, the account does not establish a direct link between his comments and the alleged order.

Critics have expressed concern that transferring corruption investigations to an intelligence agency could weaken the independence and transparency associated with the OSP’s mandate. They argue that the office was established to investigate corruption involving public officials and other influential individuals without undue political interference.

Civil society organisations have also reportedly raised concerns about the possible implications for ongoing investigations involving prominent political and business figures. They maintain that any changes to the OSP’s responsibilities should follow clear legal procedures and protect the integrity of existing cases.

The opposition National Democratic Congress has allegedly criticised the reported move, describing it as an attempt by the government to weaken accountability mechanisms and protect individuals facing corruption allegations.

Meanwhile, supporters of the proposed arrangement are said to argue that restructuring could address concerns about the exercise of the OSP’s powers. They also point to the NIB’s intelligence-gathering capabilities as a possible advantage in handling sensitive matters.

The reported development has fuelled public debate about Ghana’s commitment to fighting corruption and maintaining independent oversight institutions.

Further clarification is needed regarding the authenticity, scope and legal authority of the alleged directive. Any confirmed transfer of responsibilities would raise important questions about institutional independence, the handling of ongoing investigations and the safeguards required to ensure accountability.

Until the claims are officially verified, the reported suspension should not be treated as an established government decision.