Srem-Sai Defends AG, Asserts He is Not Overstepping His Authority in Response to Minority

Dr. Justice Srem-Sai, the Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, has strongly rejected claims made by the Minority in Parliament that the Attorney General is overstepping his constitutional powers by ordering raids, arrests, and investigations involving former government officials.

The Minority caucus had accused the Attorney General of misusing his office, arguing that his role should be confined to providing legal advice to investigative bodies and supporting the judiciary. They raised concerns that his direct involvement in enforcement actions could erode the principles of the rule of law and judicial independence.

Responding to these allegations, Dr. Srem-Sai dismissed them as baseless during an interview on Eyewitness News on March 24, 2025. He clarified that the Attorney General’s authority is much broader than just advisory functions. Dr. Srem-Sai emphasized that the Attorney General is constitutionally empowered to both investigate and prosecute cases, a role that goes beyond simply offering legal counsel.

“The institutional setup of the Attorney General’s office should make it clear to anyone that the AG holds the responsibility for investigations, prosecutions, and has the backing of state agencies with the necessary constitutional powers to assist in fulfilling these duties,” Dr. Srem-Sai explained.

He further criticized those who perceive the Attorney General as a neutral observer with no involvement in direct law enforcement actions, asserting that such a stance is legally unfounded. “Anyone who suggests the AG is merely a bystander should carefully review the law. It’s clear that the law grants the AG investigative and prosecutorial powers,” he said.

Dr. Srem-Sai reassured the public that the ongoing investigations into former government officials were being conducted in full compliance with the law. He reiterated that the Attorney General’s mandate under Ghana’s legal framework includes both prosecutorial and investigative functions, and the actions being taken by his office are fully within this legal scope.

The Deputy Attorney-General concluded by stressing that the Attorney General’s actions are in line with constitutional mandates and the legal framework, assuring the public that the rule of law is being upheld throughout the ongoing investigations.