The Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, Mahama Ayariga, has expressed that the Office of the Special Prosecutor’s (OSP) exoneration of former President John Dramani Mahama provides a significant advantage to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as the December elections approach.
The OSP had previously identified Mr. Mahama as Government Official 1 (GO1) in the Airbus Scandal but ultimately cleared him of any wrongdoing.
At a press conference in Accra on Thursday, August 8, Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng confirmed that Samuel Mahama, the former president’s brother, was identified as Intermediary 5. However, he emphasized that John Mahama was identified as GO1 by UK and US courts but had no involvement in the acquisition process.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV, Mr. Ayariga said the NDC was pleased and reassured by the OSP’s findings. He noted that this development strengthens the party’s position in the ongoing campaign, particularly regarding its stance on fighting corruption.
“It is good that the OSP has conducted and concluded its investigation. As the flagbearer of our party, we are naturally pleased with this outcome, especially as corruption is a major issue in this election.
“We in the NDC have consistently criticized the government of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, in which Bawumia served as vice president, for multiple scandals that we believe are linked to corruption. The Airbus scandal was often used by NPP communicators to counter our accusations. Now, with the OSP’s confirmation that John Dramani Mahama was not involved in any corrupt activities, we feel a sense of relief.
“This gives us some momentum in our campaign as we highlight that our government was relatively cleaner and, if given the chance, we would do a better job fighting corruption,” he stated.