In a dramatic twist that has set tongues wagging, Abdul Malik Kwaku Baako, the Editor-in-Chief of the New Crusading Guide, has lambasted former Special Prosecutor Martin Amidu’s petition for the removal of his successor, Kissi Agyebeng. Baako, a prominent media figure and mentor to investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, did not mince words, branding the petition as “nonsensical.”
The controversy erupted when Amidu, also a former Attorney-General, filed a petition citing alleged procurement breaches in the purchase of vehicles for the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) and abuses involving judges and the administration of justice.
His calls for Agyebeng’s impeachment included claims of violations of citizens’ rights through arrests and detentions, failures in the right to information, and improper appointments of personnel within the office.
However, Baako, in a scathing response to a Facebook post by Professor Kwasi Prempeh, Executive Director of the Centre for Democratic Governance (CDD), dismissed Amidu’s allegations with disdain.
“Oh! My friend Martin! I see. Still nonsensical! I am yet to see or read the petition though! Nonsense, respectfully!!” Baako wrote, igniting a fierce debate online.
Amidu’s petition, confirmed by Agyebeng and dated April 30, 2024, has already reached President Akufo-Addo and Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.
The Chief Justice is now tasked with determining if there is a prima facie case to form a committee for Agyebeng’s removal as mandated by Article 146 of the Constitution.
Amidu’s petition also accuses Agyebeng of obstructing access to information.
He claims Agyebeng refused to provide appointment letters and salary details of OSP staff, which Amidu had requested to be delivered on a pen drive.
This refusal, Amidu argues, is a blatant violation of the right to information.
Kwaku Baako’s blunt dismissal of Amidu’s petition has added a new layer of intrigue to an already contentious issue. Baako’s influence and his connection to Agyebeng, through the latter's role as a lawyer for Anas Aremeyaw Anas, a journalist Baako has mentored, raise questions about potential conflicts of interest and the impartiality of his critique.
As the Chief Justice deliberates on whether to proceed with Amidu’s petition, the public is left in suspense.
Is this a legitimate pursuit of accountability, or is it, as Baako suggests, a nonsensical vendetta?
The coming days will undoubtedly bring more revelations, keeping the nation riveted to this unfolding political and legal drama.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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