OSP clarifies selective disclosure of investigations amid NDC vote-buying probe

The Director of Strategy, Research and Communications at the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP), Samuel Appiah Darko, has clarified that the office does not publicly announce all investigations it undertakes, noting that such disclosures are limited to matters of significant public interest.

He explained that the OSP’s decision to announce an investigation into alleged vote buying during the National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary primary held on February 7 was based on this threshold.

Mr Darko’s comments followed criticisms questioning why the OSP made its probe into the NDC primary public, while no immediate announcement was issued regarding the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential primary conducted on January 31.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Monday, February 9, Mr Darko stressed that the absence of a public statement does not mean an investigation is not underway, adding that the OSP applies discretion in determining when to inform the public.

He noted that not every case warrants public communication and that each matter is assessed on its own merits.

According to him, even where criticisms are valid, they do not invalidate the OSP’s decision to brief the public in cases deemed to be of extreme public interest, where it is important for citizens to know that action is being taken.

The February 7 NDC primary was won by Ghana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmed, who defeated Hajia Amina Adam and three other aspirants to secure the party’s parliamentary slot.

However, the outcome sparked controversy following allegations that some delegates may have been improperly induced.

In response, the NDC announced the formation of an internal committee to investigate the claims. The committee is expected to submit its findings to the party on February 10.