Group Stands for Peace, Growth, and Development (GSPGD) has commended the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) for its impartial investigation into the Airbus scandal and its principled stance in safeguarding the rule of law in Ghana.
On Thursday, August 8, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng confirmed that former President John Dramani Mahama was identified as ‘Government Official 1’ in UK court documents and ‘Individual 1’ in corresponding US filings. Despite this identification, the OSP found no evidence that Mr. Mahama engaged in corrupt activities or received bribes during the transactions.
Background
The Airbus scandal, dating back to Mahama’s presidency, involved Ghana’s procurement of military transport aircraft from the European aerospace giant Airbus. Allegations of impropriety led to an investigation by former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu in 2020. The focus was on agreements made under Mr. Mahama’s administration for the purchase of military aircraft for the Ghana Armed Forces.
Conclusive Report by the OSP
After a thorough investigation, the OSP clarified that no evidence implicates former President Mahama in any wrongdoing. The OSP’s report emphasized that Mr. Mahama’s involvement in the procurement process was driven by good intentions, with no indication of corrupt practices.
GSPGD’s Appreciation
Group Stands for Peace, Growth, and Development extends its deepest gratitude to the OSP for its unwavering dedication to maintaining independence in its investigations. The organization acknowledges the pressures public officials may face to align with the interests of the sitting government.
We commend the OSP for resisting such pressures, focusing solely on the evidence, and ensuring the investigation was conducted without bias.
The OSP’s approach sets a strong example of how public offices should operate—free from external influence and committed to justice and fairness. The decision to present the findings without fear or favor is a testament to the office’s dedication to upholding the rule of law.
Call for Public Support
Group Stands for Peace, Growth, and Development urges all Ghanaians to recognize and appreciate the Special Prosecutor’s efforts in maintaining independence and resisting political pressures. The integrity of our country’s legal and justice systems relies on such professionalism and impartiality. It is essential for all public officials to operate with the highest levels of integrity and resist nepotism or favoritism, which can weaken government operations and erode public trust.
Furthermore, the Group commends former President John Dramani Mahama for his willingness to subject himself to the investigation. His actions demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability, qualities essential in leadership.
As the leader and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, GSPGD advises Mr. Mahama to prioritize patriotism in selecting individuals to serve in his administration, should the people of Ghana entrust him and his party with the mandate to govern. The future of our nation depends on leaders dedicated to growth and development, who place the national interest above all else.
