Protect Democracy Through Accountability, Not Intimidation — Dr. Sebastian Paloo Cautions Security Agencies
Political analyst Dr. Sebastian Paloo has called for stronger accountability in Ghana’s democracy, insisting that public officials who misuse state resources must be held responsible regardless of their political affiliation.
Speaking on the arrest of Miracles Aboagye via a zoom interview on Kessben TV’s Digest show, Dr. Paloo stressed that democracy thrives on accountability and warned against allowing impunity to undermine public confidence in governance.
“Democracy is about accountability, and we should protect it. If someone misuses public resources, he must account for it,” he stated.
He, however, cautioned security agencies against abusing their powers while carrying out investigations, noting that although they have a constitutional mandate to enforce the law, they must avoid excesses.
“The security agencies may sometimes go to the extreme. They must be conscious of the excesses during their operations,” he said.
Addressing the ongoing debate over whether the NDC government is targeting political opponents through prosecutions, Dr. Paloo argued that the focus should not be on which party is in power but on whether those accused of wrongdoing are held accountable through due process.
“The debate of the NDC prosecuting or jailing people is not the starting point. We must determine whether people have been punished appropriately if they are found guilty,” he noted.
Drawing comparisons with countries in Asia, Dr. Paloo said many successful nations have strengthened governance by enforcing accountability without fear or favour.
“When you go to Asia, it’s about accountability,” he remarked.
He urged security agencies to remain focused on ensuring accountability while respecting the rule of law and the rights of individuals.
“I would urge the security agencies that the focus should be on accountability and nothing else,” Dr. Paloo concluded.
By Maurice Otoo
