Ansa-Asare argued that while the President of Ghana holds the power to discipline ministers under Article 296 of the Constitution, it is essential that he first exemplifies the highest standards of behavior and integrity. This stance, he believes, is necessary to maintain the respect and efficacy of the presidential office.
The discussion was triggered by accusations from Richard Jakpa, who is currently on trial with Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson. The case involves allegations of causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the state in an ambulance procurement deal. Jakpa has claimed in court that Attorney-General Godfred Dame sought his help to negatively influence public perception against Dr. Forson during the trial.
This accusation prompted the National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman, Johnson Asiedu Nketia, to demand Dame’s dismissal. At a press conference, Nketia presented a secret recording allegedly capturing a conversation between Dame and Jakpa, which he argued demonstrated unethical behavior. Nketia warned that if the current administration does not act against Dame, a future NDC government would.
Ansa-Asare, speaking on JoyNews’ AM show, highlighted the importance of the President conducting a self-introspection to identify and correct his own shortcomings before taking disciplinary actions against his ministers. He stressed that this approach does not diminish the President’s duty to act decisively when necessary, including potentially dismissing Dame.
Furthermore, Ansa-Asare rejected the idea that the Attorney-General is beyond disciplinary action by the General Legal Council. He pointed out that as a member of the Council, Dame is subject to the same ethical standards and disciplinary actions as any other lawyer in Ghana. Ansa-Asare called for the General Legal Council to consider disciplinary measures against Dame, given the serious nature of the allegations involving breaches of ethical conduct.
“My assessment of the situation is this; unless the Attorney-General is relieved of his position, he will continue to be a member of the General Legal Counsel, and it is that same counsel that is being invited and urged to consider applying the rod,” Ansa-Asare concluded.
Source: My Joy Online
