AG Dr. Ayine Clashes with Afenyo-Markin Over BoG Governor’s Home Search

 

Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has strongly defended the recent search of the residence of former Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor, Dr. Ernest Addison, refuting claims that the operation was unlawful.

Speaking to the media on Monday, March 24, 2025, Dr. Ayine clarified that the search was legally sanctioned and conducted under a High Court-issued warrant to locate and secure items suspected to have been obtained through criminal conduct.

Responding to criticisms, particularly from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who questioned the legality of the operation, Dr. Ayine firmly stated that no one is above the law.

“How come a search of the governor’s house, based on credible intelligence, is now being labeled as a raid? I was the one who applied for the warrant, and it was issued by the High Court. Why is that now a problem? Are some people above the law? No one is above the law in this country,” he asserted.

The Attorney General emphasized that the operation was not a “raid” but a constitutionally sanctioned search, citing Article 18 of the 1992 Constitution, which allows for such actions under legal procedures.

Dr. Ayine also dismissed allegations that law enforcement officers stole GHS 10,000 during the search, describing the claims as an insult to the integrity of state institutions. He cautioned against the misuse of parliamentary immunity to spread misinformation and defame public officials.

“The constitutional immunity granted to MPs does not mean they should abuse that privilege to defame law enforcement officers conducting lawful investigations,” he said.

In a direct challenge to Afenyo-Markin, Dr. Ayine revealed that his office possesses an audio recording of Dr. Addison discussing the search.

“If the Minority Leader, Afenyo-Markin, is daring me, I’ll make that public. He should desist from maligning law enforcement officers and myself,” he warned.

Dr. Ayine reaffirmed his commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law, stating that he would continue to act within ethical and legal boundaries while ensuring that state institutions carry out their mandates without political interference.

The Attorney General’s response has added a new layer to the controversy surrounding the search of Dr. Addison’s home, as the government insists the operation was lawful and necessary. Meanwhile, the opposition continues to question the motives behind the investigation. The debate is expected to continue in the coming days, with potential legal and political implications.