Kennedy Osei Nyarko, the Member of Parliament for Akim Swedru, has sharply criticized the National Investigations Bureau (NIB) for what he described as an unnecessarily aggressive and intimidating approach in the case involving Hon. Ntim Fordjour, the Ranking Member for the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament.
According to Nyarko, the NIB’s decision to arrest Hon. Fordjour rather than formally inviting him to assist with investigations through the Speaker of Parliament represents a serious misstep.
“The best thing for the NIB to have done was to formally write to invite the Hon. Member or extend an invitation through the Speaker of Parliament,” Nyarko stated, emphasizing that Fordjour’s role in Parliament should have been respected during the investigation process.
The arrest of Hon. Fordjour has raised concerns among lawmakers, particularly those in the minority, who view the NIB’s tactics as a clear attempt to intimidate and silence political opposition. “If the state security needs him for interrogation, the best they could have done was to invite him formally,” Nyarko added, criticizing the use of what he referred to as a “Rambo-style” operation. He argued that such tactics could increase tensions and destabilize the country, undermining the democratic processes that should govern investigations.
Nyarko also expressed frustration with the apparent inconsistency in the treatment of political figures.
He pointed out that during the previous administration, serious allegations were made against President Akufo-Addo and his government by NDC MPs, yet there were no attempts to arrest or intimidate any of them. “It’s sad and unfortunate that this is happening under their so-called ‘messiah’,” Nyarko remarked, referencing the current government.
In his comments, Nyarko reiterated that the legislative branch would not allow the executive to misuse state power for political intimidation.
“We will stand our ground and resist any undemocratic attempts,” he asserted. The MP’s statement is a clear warning to the executive branch that the legislative arm will defend its members’ rights against perceived overreach by state security agencies.
Furthermore, Nyarko made a call to those who may have been disillusioned with the NPP during the 2024 elections. “If you mistakenly or angrily voted against the NPP in 2024 because of disappointments, I’m sure you’re gradually realizing the mistake you made,” he said, encouraging them to reconsider their stance in the 2028 elections.
With tensions between the government and opposition continuing to rise, the use of forceful tactics by security agencies remains a key point of contention.
Lawmakers are likely to continue pressing for more diplomatic and formal procedures in dealing with parliamentary figures as the situation unfolds.
