Former Attorney-General and Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu has cautioned state institutions against selectively prosecuting corruption cases in ways that could create the impression of political persecution.
Mr Amidu argued that Ghana’s criminal justice system must operate independently and impartially, regardless of the political affiliations of persons implicated in alleged wrongdoing.
In an open letter, he said the justice system should not be manipulated to advance the political interests of an incumbent administration or target perceived opponents.
“Crime must be treated as crime instead of turning the hallowed criminal justice system which was bequeathed to Ghanaians over generations into an instrument of political vendetta,” he said.
His comments come in the wake of renewed attention on the Asante Kwaku Berko-AKSA bribery case following Berko’s conviction in the United States on August 6, 2026.
Mr Amidu criticised what he considers an inconsistent approach to corruption prosecution, warning that pursuing certain individuals while overlooking others connected to similar allegations could undermine public confidence in Ghana’s justice institutions.
He said the selective application of criminal justice could have serious consequences for Ghana’s constitutional democracy, particularly if prosecutions are perceived as being motivated by electoral or partisan considerations.
“That is not a path to cementing constitutionalism, the rule of law and democracy in the Ghanaian society,” he stated.
According to the former Special Prosecutor, governments have a responsibility to ensure that public institutions remain impartial and accountable to the entire citizenry rather than serving the interests of a particular political administration.
He stressed that corruption and other criminal offences must be addressed on the basis of evidence and the law, rather than the political identity of those involved.
Mr Amidu further warned that the politicisation of state institutions could deepen divisions within the country and weaken public trust in the justice system.
“Governments and state institutions must serve the electorate fairly and impartially,” he said.
He also urged state institutions to resist attempts to turn them into instruments for settling political scores, stressing that their mandate is to protect the interests of the Republic.
“State institutions must never become gangsters of incumbent governments paid from the public purse operating against the interest of the Republic of Ghana,” he added.
Mr Amidu’s remarks have renewed the debate over the need for consistency and impartiality in Ghana’s fight against corruption, particularly in cases involving politically exposed persons.
