Sammy Obeng, a representative of the Parliamentary Network Africa (PNA), has criticised recent efforts to scrap the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), describing the move as an overstepping of boundaries by Parliament.
Speaking in a media interview, Mr. Obeng said the push to abolish the OSP goes beyond Parliament’s oversight role and risks undermining Ghana’s broader anti-corruption framework. According to him, while Parliament has the authority to scrutinise public institutions and demand accountability, seeking to completely dismantle the OSP because of performance concerns sets a dangerous precedent.
He argued that concerns about efficiency, funding, or outcomes should be addressed through reforms, strengthened oversight, and clearer performance benchmarks rather than outright abolition. “If there are issues with how the OSP is functioning, the solution should be to fix it, not scrap it,” he said, warning that such actions could weaken public trust in the fight against corruption.
Mr. Obeng further noted that the OSP was established through legislation to serve as an independent body insulated from political interference. Any attempt to remove it, he said, could be perceived as politically motivated and may erode confidence in Parliament’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
The PNA representative urged lawmakers to exercise restraint and respect institutional boundaries, stressing that Ghana’s democratic governance depends on strong, independent institutions. He called for constructive dialogue between Parliament, civil society, and the OSP to improve effectiveness rather than taking steps that could reverse hard-won gains in anti-corruption efforts.
His comments come amid heightened public debate following discussions in Parliament around repealing the OSP Act, with civil society organisations and governance experts divided on the best way forward.
