K.T. Hammond, the lawyer for former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor, has maintained that his client cannot be held liable for any allegations linking him to corruption perpetrated by former Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) boss Asante Berko.
The claims stem from a bribery scandal involving a power project under the previous administration, which is being scrutinized by US authorities. Asante Berko, a former Goldman Sachs banker and Managing Director of TOR, was accused by US authorities of facilitating millions of dollars in bribes to influence Ghanaian officials.
Allegations Against Asante Berko
According to US authorities, Asante Berko facilitated millions of dollars in bribes to influence Ghanaian officials in connection with a power project. The allegations are part of ongoing proceedings against Berko.
K.T. Hammond's Response
In a recent interview on JoyNews' Top Story, K.T. Hammond maintained that allegations of wrongdoing attributed to Mr. Berko cannot, on their own, establish any criminal or legal liability against Dr. Donkor. Hammond stated that it is standard procedure for engineers and technicians to inspect the quality of equipment before it is brought to the country, adding that any corrupt deal which may have ensued had nothing to do with the minister.
Hammond emphasized that Dr. Donkor's role as Power Minister at the time of the agreement's negotiation and signing does not imply liability for any alleged corruption. He argued that Dr. Donkor has consistently maintained that there was nothing fraudulent about the deal and has defended the government's decision at the time.
Context and Background
The allegations against Asante Berko are part of a larger power agreement that has been subject to scrutiny. The agreement was negotiated and signed during Dr. Donkor's tenure as Power Minister. The deal has been at the center of controversy, with many questioning its legitimacy.
The controversy surrounding the power agreement has gained momentum in recent times, with renewed scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the deal. The US authorities' proceedings against Asante Berko have shed more light on the alleged bribery scandal, which is expected to have significant implications for those involved.
What's Next
The ongoing proceedings against Asante Berko are expected to have far-reaching consequences for those implicated in the alleged bribery scandal. The Ghanaian government has been under pressure to investigate the allegations and provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the power agreement. The outcome of the proceedings will have significant implications for the government's reputation and the country's relationship with international partners.
Source: Joy Online
