The recent invasion of former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta’s residence on February 11, 2025, has sparked widespread controversy, with Martin Amidu calling for a thorough investigation beyond mere apologies.
The unfolding events, as detailed in Amidu’s statement, highlight significant concerns regarding due process, state security actions, and political accountability.
Below are the key takeaways from his statement:
1. The Invasion Was a State-Authorized Operation
Martin Amidu asserts that the presence of soldiers and security operatives at Ken Ofori-Atta’s residence, as captured on CCTV footage, indicates state involvement. The government could no longer deny its role following the publication of these images.
2. Lack of Search or Arrest Warrant Raises Legal Concerns
The invasion reportedly took place without a proper search or arrest warrant, undermining legal protocols and fundamental human rights. Amidu criticizes the majority in Parliament for downplaying the severity of this breach.
3. The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) Denied Involvement
The Special Prosecutor, who had earlier declared Ken Ofori-Atta a fugitive from justice, denied any role in the invasion. Instead, the OSP suggested that the event might have been staged to undermine its investigation into corruption-related charges against Ofori-Atta.
4. CCTV Footage Contradicts OSP’s Claim
The release of CCTV footage contradicted the OSP’s assertion that the invasion was staged, reinforcing concerns that state security forces unlawfully entered Ofori-Atta’s residence. This placed the burden on the government to clarify its position and take responsibility.
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5. The President Must Address the Issue Directly
Amidu insists that President John Dramani Mahama, as the head of the executive and security apparatus, must either admit responsibility for authorizing the raid or take decisive action against those involved. Delegating responses to the Majority Leader in Parliament, Mahama Ayariga, was inadequate.
6. The Role of Parliament in Trivializing the Incident
The majority side of Parliament was criticized for treating the invasion as a minor issue rather than a significant breach of privacy and due process. This, Amidu argues, reflects a concerning trend of political manipulation and deflection.
7. The Vice President’s Silence Is Notable
Amidu highlights the absence of any statement from the Vice President, who is constitutionally expected to act in the President’s stead while he is away. He condemns the growing trend of Vice Presidents avoiding critical responsibilities during presidential absences.
8. Historical Parallels to Past Political Abuses
The statement draws parallels between this incident and the 2002 raid on the late President John Evans Atta Mills’ residence under President John Agyekum Kufuor’s administration. Amidu warns that repeating such impunity in 2025 undermines Ghana’s democratic progress.
9. The Need for an Independent Investigation
Amidu calls for a thorough and impartial investigation into the invasion, emphasizing that only transparency and accountability will restore public confidence in the government and its security agencies.
10. Political Accountability Is Essential for National Stability
Concluding his statement, Amidu warns that the electorate will not tolerate state-sponsored violations of civil liberties. He urges the Mahama administration to act decisively or risk losing credibility with the public.
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