Private lawyer Martin Kpebu has called on Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) to expedite court proceedings against individuals implicated in the Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) and Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) scandal.
His remarks follow recent OSP arrests linked to alleged irregularities in revenue assurance contracts.
Speaking on TV3’s Key Points, Kpebu acknowledged investigative progress but stressed arrests alone lack legal finality. “If the case hasn’t gone to court, you haven’t done anything. I won’t celebrate arrests—they’re not convictions,” he stated. He urged the OSP to “double up and enter the court” to demonstrate substantive accountability.
Kpebu referenced the scandal’s origins under former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s administration, noting civil society objections to KPMG’s initial review.
“CSOs opposed KPMG’s involvement due to its government contracts,” he said, characterizing the OSP’s current engagement as delayed but necessary. The controversial contracts, which triggered public outcry over procurement transparency, have seen multiple arrests of former officials and SML affiliates.
The OSP, led by Kissi Agyebeng, has yet to announce formal charges or trial dates. Under President Mahama’s administration, the case remains a litmus test for anti-corruption commitments ahead of the 2028 elections.
