Experts are saying that calls to abolish Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) are premature. They argue that the OSP is still evolving and needs time to develop and operate effectively. The OSP was created in 2018 to combat corruption, but it has faced operational challenges and jurisdictional boundaries.
Some politicians, including Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, have called for the OSP to be scrapped, citing concerns about its effectiveness and the need for constitutional reform. However, experts warn that abolishing the OSP without proper assessment and reform could undermine efforts to tackle corruption.
Key Concerns:
– Lack of Constitutional Basis: Some argue the OSP lacks a clear constitutional mandate.
– Operational Challenges: The OSP faces resource constraints and jurisdictional issues.
– Effectiveness: Critics question whether the OSP is achieving its goals.
Recommendations:
– Strengthen OSP Capacity: Enhance resources and clarify mandate.
– Legislative Reforms: Improve oversight and coordination with other agencies.
– Constitutional Solution: Address underlying issues through constitutional reform.
The debate highlights the need for a balanced approach to addressing corruption in Ghana, considering both the OSP’s limitations and its potential impact.
