AG defends press briefings on past govt investigations

Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine has defended his decision to hold press briefings on investigations into officials from the previous administration, stressing that it’s part of his duty to inform the public.

Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Friday, June 13, Dr. Ayine said:

“Even the U.S. Attorney-General briefs the press after concluding investigations. There is nothing absolutely wrong with that. We owe the public accountability.”

He addressed criticism over public comments he made concerning ongoing investigations, including that of former Signals Bureau Director Kwabena Adu Boahene. Dr. Ayine clarified that the briefings are not politically motivated.

“This is not about making any party look bad. It’s about accountability. I will continue to update the public through press briefings,” he said.

NSS Payroll Fraud: Full Docket Submitted

Dr. Ayine also announced that his office has received a full docket on the National Service Scheme (NSS) payroll fraud case. The Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) led the probe under the supervision of Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai.

The investigation uncovered a large-scale payroll fraud scheme involving senior NSS officials and private accomplices. A total of GH¢548 million was allegedly siphoned using 81,885 ghost names.

“This is a nationwide criminal enterprise. The evidence shows top officials and private actors colluded to defraud the state,” Dr. Ayine said.

The current number of active personnel stands at 98,145, sharply lower than the 180,030 names submitted for payment in 2024. This 81,885-name discrepancy triggered the investigation.

Authorities estimate the fraud cost Ghana about GH¢50 million monthly.

12 Suspects to Face Charges

Twelve individuals will face charges, including:

1. Former NSS Executive Director Mustapha Ussif
2. Former NSA Executive Director Osei Assibey Antwi
3. Former Deputy Director of Finance and Administration Gifty Oware-Mensah

They are expected to be charged with:

• Stealing
• Money laundering
• Obtaining public property by false pretenses
• Conspiracy to commit money laundering

The Attorney-General emphasized that the prosecutions are based on hard evidence, not political motivations.