Legal expert questions EOCO warrant for Manhyia MP’s arrest
Private lawyer Martin Kpebu argues that Parliament’s process renders the court‑issued warrant unnecessary and could endanger parliamentary privileges.
The High Court has granted EOCO authority to obtain a warrant that orders the arrest of Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, prompting private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu to challenge the move. He argues that Parliament already provides a clear mechanism for coercing an MP’s appearance, rendering the court‑issued warrant unnecessary and potentially harmful to parliamentary privilege.
Under Section 20 of the Parliament Act, the Speaker may be petitioned in writing to compel an MP’s attendance before any law‑enforcement body, including EOCO. Kpebu stressed this protocol obliges the Speaker to escort the legislator personally to the requesting agency, thereby preserving the dignity and immunity attached to the office. He warned that bypassing Parliament’s channel could expose the MP to extended police detention when officers escort him directly to a station.
The lawyer’s criticism follows an Accra High Court ruling that confirmed EOCO’s request after the agency claimed it had exhausted all reasonable avenues to secure the MP’s voluntary cooperation. Kpebu questioned the logic of pursuing a warrant when the legislative route remains available and effective.
At this stage, the warrant remains active, meaning police may seek to detain the MP using standard arrest powers. The next steps will depend on how EOCO proceeds with the legal process and whether Parliament’s prescribed procedure is invoked to facilitate a lawful appearance.
