Tuesday, 14 July

Minority demands Attorney General’s briefing on Dennis Miracles Aboagye’s Detention

News
Minority Leader and Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin
 

The Minority in Parliament has called on the Attorney General to appear before the House to explain the arrest, continued detention and bail conditions of New Patriotic Party (NPP) Director of Communications, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, arguing that the matter raises serious concerns about human rights and democratic governance.

Raising the issue on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, July 14, Minority Leader and Effutu MP Alexander Afenyo-Markin criticised the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) over the manner in which the opposition communicator was arrested on his arrival in Ghana and subsequently kept in custody.

According to Afenyo-Markin, Aboagye has remained in EOCO custody for more than three days despite previously responding to invitations from the investigative body whenever requested.

The Minority Leader stressed that the opposition is not against lawful investigations or accountability but questioned the circumstances under which the arrest was carried out, describing it as unnecessary and excessive.

He urged lawmakers to view the matter as one that transcends partisan politics, warning that the use of state institutions in such a manner could create a troubling precedent that may affect all political actors regardless of affiliation.

Afenyo-Markin further appealed to the Attorney General to brief Parliament on the legal basis for the arrest, detention and ongoing investigations, insisting that the House deserves an explanation.

He also questioned why EOCO chose to arrest Aboagye at the airport when, according to him, the NPP communications director had consistently cooperated with investigators and had never failed to honour invitations.

The Effutu MP additionally criticised the bail terms reportedly imposed on Aboagye, claiming that requiring properties valued at GH¢50 million as security was unreasonable and disproportionate.

He said the NPP official had already suffered significant losses following the recent floods and argued that his continued detention had compounded the emotional and financial difficulties facing his family.

Describing the issue as a matter of fundamental rights rather than partisan politics, Afenyo-Markin maintained that Parliament has a responsibility to ensure public institutions operate within the bounds of fairness and due process.

He further alleged that some Members of Parliament had, in the past, been invited by state security agencies after making public comments on national issues, cautioning against actions that could be perceived as political intimidation.

While acknowledging EOCO's mandate to investigate suspected offences, the Minority Leader said the agency should carry out its work in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of individuals.

He concluded by calling on the Speaker to facilitate the Attorney General's appearance before Parliament to provide answers on the circumstances surrounding Aboagye's detention and the actions taken by EOCO.

   

Source: Classfmonline.com/Zita Okwang