Office of the Special Prosecutor faces criticism over leadership oversight

Legal practitioner Martin Kpebu has criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) in Ghana, arguing that the institution lacks sufficient checks and balances to regulate its leadership. Kpebu noted that because the Special Prosecutor serves as the primary ambassador and face of the organization, the personal conduct of the occupant directly impacts public perception and the credibility of the office.

Kpebu suggested that the Office of the Special Prosecutor Act, 2017 (Act 959) lacked foresight by assuming all occupants would act appropriately, thereby failing to provide mechanisms to rein in an individual whose conduct might erode public trust. These remarks follow a July 2026 Supreme Court ruling that upheld the constitutionality of the OSP and its independent prosecutorial powers.

To facilitate public engagement, the OSP provides several channels for reporting suspected corruption, including an online platform that allows for both anonymous and open complaints. Citizens can report offenses such as extortion, corruption, and abuse of office via the official website, email, phone, or in person at the Accra office.