Investigative journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni has called on the acting Chief Justice to take steps to ensure that corruption cases involving public officials are handled quickly and fairly, without turning the process into unnecessary drama.
In a statement titled “Let the Drama End, and Prosecution Begin,” Manasseh Azure urged Justice Baffoe-Bonnie to call some judges to order, saying that while all offences are bailable, bail conditions should not be used as punishment against suspects.
He emphasised that Ghanaians are demanding justice, not drama, and said the justice system must focus on ensuring that those accused of stealing public funds face the law within reasonable timeframes.
According to him, there is no reason why high-profile corruption cases cannot be resolved within two months, citing how other countries, such as the United States, handle major trials within weeks.
He also noted that Ghana’s election petitions and lawsuits against the Electoral Commission are often concluded within a short period, proving that quick justice is possible when there is commitment.
Manasseh Azure called on the Chief Justice to set up special courts dedicated to corruption cases and to ensure they sit continuously to speed up trials.
He added that lawyers and prosecutors should avoid delaying tactics, saying both sides must be prepared before stepping into court.
“If the accused are innocent, they should be set free. If they are found guilty, let’s put them in jail. Their lawyers can appeal,” he said.
The journalist criticised what he described as “outrageous bail conditions” that make headlines but end without results, insisting that Ghanaians need swift prosecutions, not endless courtroom drama.
He concluded that ending corruption requires urgency, fairness, and discipline within the justice system, adding, “The drama must end. Using bail as punishment must cease. Let swift prosecution begin.”
By Jacob Aggrey
