Public drama over elite arrests weakens trust in justice system - Franklin Cudjoe

The President of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has criticised what he described as a needless public spectacle surrounding the arrest and detention of politically exposed persons, warning that such behaviours weaken trust in Ghana’s justice system.

Speaking during an a discussion programme on Channel One TV on Saturday, May 31, 2025, Mr Cudjoe questioned why the legal troubles of political figures often spark loud public outcry when ordinary citizens go through similar processes without attention.

“I’ve never understood why common invitations to security services should turn into some sort of circus,” he said.

“When ordinary people are arrested for committing crimes, no one masses up or makes noise. But when it involves a politically exposed person, the whole country must stop?”

Mr Cudjoe expressed concern that these episodes are often used as platforms for political grandstanding instead of allowing the legal process to unfold without interference.

According to him, such actions send the wrong signal to Ghanaians and create the impression that justice is not applied equally.

“This sort of behaviour irritates me,” he said. “We must stop turning arrests into theatre. If a person is accused of wrongdoing, allow the process to play out. No one is above the law.”

He also raised questions about the continued detention of suspects who have been granted bail but are yet to meet the conditions.

While acknowledging that the law permits such custody, Mr Cudjoe called on lawyers to challenge what he described as overly harsh bail requirements.

“You can go to court and ask for a variation,” he said. “The law allows for that. Bail conditions are not meant to punish.”

Mr Cudjoe noted that the lawful process should continue, but without unnecessary public spectacle.

He commended individuals who quietly helped to meet bail requirements behind the scenes, describing such efforts as a more reasonable approach.

He also criticised political actors and supporters who seize on such situations to whip up public emotions or display political relevance, adding that these behaviours do not serve the country’s peace or legal order.

“When people are caught up in legal issues, let’s not raise tensions,” he said. “Others go through the same without calling on their entire community. It’s unfair and dangerous.”