Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has accused the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) of harassment and abuse of due process following the re-arrest of the former CEO of the National Food and Buffer Stock Company, Abdul-Wahab Hanan Aludiba, and his wife, Faiza Seidu Wuni. The NPP lawmaker issued a statement on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, characterizing the detention as “needless” and politically motivated, an action he described as “shameful, reprehensible and most unworthy of a healthy democracy.”
Background of the Case
The couple were initially among five individuals charged with alleged financial impropriety related to the Buffer Stock Company. The prosecution, led by the Attorney-General’s office, faced a significant setback in court.
Defence lawyers successfully raised objections, which the court upheld, revealing perceived weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. This led to an attempt by the prosecution to introduce new witness statements without the court’s permission.
The defence team, notably led by former Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame, challenged this move. Following this, the prosecution decided to withdraw all charges against the accused individuals.
Re-arrest and Allegations of Due Process Violation
Just days after the charges were dropped and the individuals were free, EOCO re-arrested Hanan Aludiba and his wife on Tuesday, May 5, 2024. Afenyo-Markin highlighted that the couple, who had previously been granted bail by the court, were now detained at EOCO offices without bail.
Further allegations from the Minority Leader included that legal representatives for the re-arrested couple were denied access to their clients for several hours on the day of the arrest.
Political Motivations Alleged
Afenyo-Markin suggested that the actions by EOCO are driven by political pressure on the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to show progress in its anti-corruption efforts, known as Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL).
He asserted that EOCO’s move was a “desperate attempt to save the face of the Attorney-General and sustain a false impression of a continuation of the Government’s failed ORAL promise.”
Concerns for EOCO’s Credibility
The Minority Leader issued a warning to EOCO Director Raymond Archer, urging him to operate within legal boundaries. Afenyo-Markin cautioned that if EOCO is perceived as targeting political opponents, the agency risks undermining its own credibility and public trust.
He concluded by calling for the immediate release of the former CEO and his wife, emphasizing the need for adherence to due process and the rule of law.
Implications and Future Watch
This incident raises significant questions about the independence and impartiality of state anti-corruption bodies. The accusations of political motivation and potential harassment could fuel public debate on the government’s commitment to fighting corruption transparently. Observers will be watching to see if EOCO provides a detailed explanation for the re-arrest and if any new charges are formally brought. The actions taken by EOCO and the response from the government will be crucial in shaping public perception of the justice system’s fairness and its handling of high-profile cases, especially as the political climate intensifies.
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