Interior Minister to Address Parliament on Search at Former BoG Governor’s Residence
Ghana’s Interior Minister, Muntaka Mubarak, is scheduled to appear before Parliament to provide details regarding the search conducted at the residence of Dr. Ernest Addison, the former Governor of the Bank of Ghana. The search, carried out on March 19, involved heavily armed National Security operatives who reportedly disabled CCTV cameras before searching the premises. The operation has triggered public outrage, with many questioning its legality and the motives behind it. Lawmakers, especially those in the Minority, have strongly criticized the operation, insisting that Parliament must ensure transparency and hold the government accountable for security agencies' actions. They have demanded full disclosure regarding the justification for the search, including the legal basis for the warrant and the specific allegations that led to the operation. Given the heightened concerns over the conduct of security personnel, the Interior Minister’s address is expected to shed light on whether due process was followed and clarify any misunderstandings surrounding the controversial search.
Despite mounting pressure, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga has clarified that the Interior Minister will not be available to appear before Parliament on March 25 as initially expected. He assured that a new date would be set for his appearance. Meanwhile, he rejected claims that the search was a "raid," arguing that law enforcement officers conducted a legally sanctioned search and that using the term "raid" was misleading. His statement, however, has not quelled public concerns, as many continue to view the operation as excessive and intimidating. Reports from Dr. Addison’s close associates indicate that the incident left him and his family deeply distressed. They described the search as an unwarranted invasion of privacy, raising questions about the government's handling of high-profile investigations. Some members of Parliament have accused National Security operatives of using excessive force and failing to follow due process, further intensifying demands for accountability.
As the controversy continues, different perspectives have emerged regarding the justification for the search. The Deputy Attorney General has defended the operation, insisting it was legally authorized and necessary for ongoing investigations. Meanwhile, other lawmakers, including Afenyo-Markin, have accused National Security personnel of theft during the search, further complicating the situation. This incident highlights the growing concerns about the role of security agencies in Ghana and the need for greater oversight to prevent potential abuses of power. While the government maintains that the search was lawful, public skepticism remains, and many await the Interior Minister’s briefing to Parliament for clarity. The case has also sparked broader discussions about the rights of individuals, due process in law enforcement operations, and the limits of government authority in private matters. Moving forward, Parliament’s response and the Interior Minister’s explanation will be critical in determining whether the government can restore public confidence in the country’s security institutions.
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