Kpebu Criticizes EOCO Detention of Manhyia South MP Baffour Awuah as Show of Force
Kpebu argues the detention lacks legal basis and serves only political intimidation, not justice.
Lawyer Martin Kpebu has condemned the continued detention of Manhyia South MP Baffour Awuah by the Economic and Organised Crime Office, calling it unnecessary and politically motivated.
Speaking on TV3’s Key Points on October 3, 2026, Kpebu questioned why an MP who reported voluntarily after becoming aware of the case in February remained in custody for hours without interrogation. He insisted no justification exists for holding someone who has cooperated throughout, noting the Supreme Court has affirmed that all offences are bailable.
Kpebu accused EOCO of procedural failures, stating the office goofed by not questioning Awuah immediately upon surrender. He emphasized that the detention undermines public trust in state institutions and reflects a broader pattern of coercion.
In response, EOCO defended its actions in a news release dated October 2, 2026, confirming Awuah’s voluntary surrender and ongoing collaboration. The office stated it works with the Attorney-General’s Office to meet constitutional timelines and prepare for a weekend court appearance.
The statement dismissed claims of a GH₵50 million bail, clarifying that no bail had been granted and that procedural requirements were being observed.
NPP Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin visited Awuah in custody on October 2 and accused the Mahama administration of orchestrating a campaign of persecution against opposition figures. He likened state actions to a police officer harassing a driver over trivial matters, arguing that selective enforcement erodes democratic norms.
Afenyo-Markin asserted that Baffour Awuah’s treatment was part of a larger effort to silence NPP voices, especially sharp critics within Parliament. He urged party members to remain united and focused on electoral victory, warning that political witch-hunting weakens national cohesion.
He further challenged the NDC to name a single legacy project by President John Dramani Mahama by 2028, suggesting the government lacks tangible achievements to showcase.
The detention has sparked public debate, with Kpebu questioning whether the state would have detained Awuah if he belonged to the ruling party. He argued that such bias threatens the integrity of Ghana’s justice system.
While EOCO maintains procedural compliance, critics view the case as emblematic of rising political tensions ahead of the 2028 elections.
