The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) says it will assess allegations of extortion and related conduct made by Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) Chief Executive Officer Sammy Gyamfi against Minority Leader in Parliament Alexander Afenyo-Markin.
In a statement issued on Monday, August 24, the anti-corruption agency said it had taken note of the allegations, which have generated public attention, as well as petitions submitted in connection with the matter.
The OSP said it had received a joint petition from two individuals concerning the allegations and two separate petitions from other individuals on the same matter.
The office said it would first examine the nature and substance of the allegations to determine whether they fall within its statutory mandate.
It will then consider whether the circumstances outlined in the allegations and petitions provide sufficient grounds for further investigative action.
“Given the nature of the allegations, the OSP will assess the case and determine whether it falls within its statutory mandate and whether further investigative action is warranted,” the statement said.
The development comes amid an ongoing public dispute between Mr Gyamfi and Mr Afenyo-Markin.
The Minority Leader had earlier indicated that he would pursue legal action over allegations made against him by the GoldBod CEO, including claims portraying him as an “extortionist”.
However, less than 24 hours after that statement, Mr Afenyo-Markin appeared to adopt a more cautious position when asked whether he would take legal action against Mr Gyamfi.
Speaking on JoyNews’ The Probe on Sunday evening, August 23, the Effutu MP declined to commit himself to going to court and instead referred to the biblical account of Jesus Christ being accused.
“I have made certain statements. I would rely on them without more. Don’t rush. In the Bible, Jesus was accused; wild allegations. He kept quiet and watched them. He could have done anything,” he said.
Mr Afenyo-Markin said he was mindful of the responsibilities that come with his position as Minority Leader and would not allow emotions to determine how he responds to the allegations against him.
