The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has begun a preliminary investigation into a purported memorandum alleging that Deputy Minority Leader and Asokwa MP, Patricia Appiagyei, returned GH¢70,000 allegedly given to her in connection with the vetting of ministerial and Supreme Court nominees.
The document, reportedly authored by Patricia Appiagyei and addressed to Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh, claims the money was provided as an advance from the Majority Chief Whip for the vetting of two ministerial nominees and three Supreme Court nominees by Parliament’s Appointments Committee.
The OSP is investigating the authenticity of the document, the source of the alleged funds and their intended purpose.
It said the inquiry is necessary because of the constitutional importance of the Appointments Committee and the need to protect the integrity of the vetting process.
The Office also said the document raises concerns about the source of the money and suggests the alleged conduct could have the hallmarks of extortion of nominees.
As part of the preliminary inquiry, the OSP has invited Patricia Appiagyei to appear before the Office and assist with the investigation.
The Special Prosecutor added that the OSP is actively investigating all allegations of extortion involving Members of Parliament.
Below is the full statement
