Monday, 22 December

PAG demands transparency over EOCO’s record GHs337m asset recoveries

Politics
Dr. John Kpikpi,

The Progressive Alliance of Ghana (PAG) has criticised the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, over what it describes as a lack of transparency surrounding recent asset recoveries by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).

In a statement reacting to Dr. Ayine’s remarks at the Government Accountability Series, PAG acknowledged EOCO’s announcement that it had exceeded its 2025 recovery target of GHS200 million, with total recoveries standing at approximately GHS337.48 million—the highest in the agency’s history.

However, the party expressed “deep disappointment” at the Attorney-General’s failure to disclose the identities of individuals or institutions from whom the funds were recovered.

During his address, Dr. Ayine explained that EOCO’s recoveries fall into two categories: direct recoveries, which are deposited into the Exhibit Account, and indirect recoveries, which are paid directly to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) or the Consolidated Fund.

PAG argues that these explanations are insufficient and do not provide the level of detail required for meaningful public accountability.

“Accountability demands more than the announcement of figures.

It requires transparency, clarity and full disclosure,” the party said.

Led by its 2024 Presidential Candidate, Dr. John Kpikpi, PAG is demanding further clarification from the Attorney-General and EOCO on several key issues, including the specific assets or funds recovered, the individuals or institutions involved, the offences or criminal conduct that led to the recoveries, and whether prosecutions, convictions or sanctions have followed.

The party is also seeking information on how the recovered monies will be utilised for the benefit of the Ghanaian people.

According to PAG, publicly naming offenders and outlining the consequences of their actions is essential to deterring corruption and restoring confidence in the justice system.

The party warned that withholding such information only fuels public suspicion and undermines the credibility of the government’s anti-corruption efforts.

PAG has therefore called on the Attorney-General and the leadership of EOCO to provide a comprehensive public account of the recoveries in the interest of transparency, accountability and good governance.

 

The statement, signed by Dr. John Kpikpi, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to openness, justice and responsible leadership, pledging to continue pressing for full accountability in the management and recovery of public resources.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah