EOCO OSP Roles in Aksa Bribery Investigation: Collaboration Crucial

• Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai has cautioned against turning the Aksa Energy deal investigation into a turf war between EOCO and OSP.
• The case involves potential offenses beyond bribery and corruption, including money laundering, which falls within EOCO's mandate.
• EOCO and OSP can collaborate in investigating the Aksa Energy deal, with each agency bringing its unique expertise to the table.

It is not a question of 'I want to do it'. Yes, you want to do it, but who has the mandate to do what ought to be done?

The investigation into alleged bribery surrounding the Aksa Energy deal has sparked concerns about a potential turf war between Ghana's anti-corruption agencies. Deputy Attorney-General Dr Justice Srem-Sai has cautioned against this, emphasizing that the priority should be establishing facts and enforcing laws. The case extends beyond bribery and corruption, potentially involving offenses like money laundering, which falls within EOCO's mandate. This complexity highlights the need for collaboration between EOCO and OSP, rather than competition.

Ghana's anti-corruption agencies have complementary responsibilities in fighting corruption and organized crime. The Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) is currently the lead agency handling the Aksa Energy deal investigation, while the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has been called upon to take a leading role following Asante Kweku Bediako's conviction for bribing foreign officials in connection with a power project. The OSP's mandate includes investigating corruption and other offenses, but EOCO's expertise in money laundering and other financial crimes makes it an essential partner in this investigation.

Lawyers should be aware of the potential conflicts between EOCO and OSP in investigating the Aksa Energy deal. The collaboration between these agencies is crucial to ensure that wrongdoing is properly investigated and punished. As Ghana's anti-corruption efforts continue, it is essential for lawyers to advise clients on compliance with Ghana's anti-corruption laws and be prepared for the complexities of inter-agency cooperation.

Lawyers should watch for potential conflicts between EOCO and OSP in investigating the Aksa Energy deal, and be prepared to advise clients on compliance with Ghana's anti-corruption laws.

Source: Original reporting via JoyNews