Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader of Ghana's Parliament, accused the government of practising selective justice during a demonstration on Thursday, August 6. He alleged that corruption involving government officials is being ignored while political opponents and critics are singled out for investigation and prosecution.
Minority Leader Accuses Government of Selective Justice
Speaking at the "Democracy Under Attack" demonstration, Mr Afenyo-Markin claimed that the selective application of justice is undermining Ghana's democratic principles. He alleged that allegations of corruption involving government officials are not receiving the attention of state security agencies and anti-corruption institutions.
According to Mr Afenyo-Markin, reports of wrongdoing within government are being overlooked while political opponents continue to face what he described as harassment. "The rot in government is being ignored," he claimed.
Criticism of Ongoing Process to Remove Chief Justice
Mr Afenyo-Markin also criticised the ongoing process seeking the removal of the Chief Justice, arguing that it reflects what he described as selective justice. He alleged that the committee established under the law to investigate the matter had not completed its work before a report was purportedly produced and relied upon as the basis for the Chief Justice's removal.
Concerns Over Arrest and Detention of Citizens
The Minority Leader further expressed concern over the arrest and detention of citizens over comments on governance, saying such actions threaten democratic freedoms. "We are not saying that we endorse excesses in such actions," he said. "But where anybody is affected, the person can go to court, not spend time in prison."
Growing Threat to Ghana's Democracy
Mr Afenyo-Markin maintained that the alleged failure to investigate corruption allegations within government, coupled with the treatment of political opponents and critics, points to what he believes is a growing threat to Ghana's democracy. The Minority Leader's comments come at a time when Ghana is grappling with corruption and governance issues.
The government's response to the Minority Leader's allegations has not been made available at the time of writing. The outcome of the ongoing process to remove the Chief Justice remains uncertain, and citizens continue to express concerns over the arrest and detention of citizens over comments on governance. As Ghana navigates its democratic challenges, the Minority Leader's comments serve as a reminder of the need for accountability and transparency in government.
Source: Joy Online
