In a significant development highlighting the intersection of law enforcement and constitutional rights, Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai has made a powerful statement defending the fundamental legal principle of the presumption of innocence. His remarks come at a critical moment following the high-profile arrest of former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director-General, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
The High-Profile Airport Arrest
The former intelligence chief, Kwabena Adu-Boahene, was taken into custody in a dramatic scene at Kotoka International Airport upon his arrival from London on a British Airways flight. This arrest has generated significant public interest given Adu-Boahene’s former position at the helm of one of the country’s most sensitive security agencies.
Adding to the complexity of the case, Adu-Boahene’s wife, Madam Angela Adjei-Boateng, is also currently assisting authorities with their investigations while in custody. The couple’s simultaneous detention has raised questions about the nature and scope of the ongoing investigation.
Deputy AG’s Personal Intervention
In a move demonstrating the government’s commitment to procedural fairness, Dr. Srem-Sai personally visited both detainees to assess their conditions and ensure their legal rights were being protected. The Deputy Attorney-General’s direct involvement underscores the high-profile nature of the case and the authorities’ awareness of public scrutiny.
Following his visit, Dr. Srem-Sai provided reassurance regarding the treatment of the couple, confirming: “They have access to counsel of their choice and are being treated well.” This statement addresses immediate concerns about detention conditions while investigations continue.
Upholding Constitutional Principles
Dr. Srem-Sai’s most pointed comments centered on the bedrock legal principle of presumption of innocence. In his public statement shared via Facebook on Friday, March 21, he emphasized:
“No one, regardless of the nature of the suspicion or accusations, should be treated as guilty until they’re proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.”
This principle, enshrined in both national law and international human rights standards such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, serves as a crucial safeguard against prejudgment and ensures fair treatment throughout the legal process.
Implications for Rule of Law
Legal experts from the Ghana Bar Association have noted that Dr. Srem-Sai’s comments represent an important affirmation of constitutional values during high-stakes investigations. The Deputy AG’s statement serves as a reminder that even in cases involving national security concerns, adherence to proper legal procedures remains paramount.
The case highlights the delicate balance between effective law enforcement and the protection of individual rights – a balance that remains essential to maintaining public trust in the justice system.
Conclusion
As investigations into the former NSB Director-General continue, Dr. Srem-Sai’s intervention establishes clear expectations for procedural fairness. The case serves as an important reminder that in a functioning democracy, even those facing serious allegations retain fundamental rights to fair treatment and due process.
The coming weeks will likely reveal more details about the nature of the investigations and any potential charges against Adu-Boahene and his wife. However, as Dr. Srem-Sai has firmly established, judgment should be reserved until the proper legal proceedings have concluded.
Stay Informed on Legal Developments
Want to stay updated on this case and other important legal developments? Subscribe to our weekly legal affairs newsletter for expert analysis and breaking news. Our team of legal correspondents provides context and clarity on the most significant cases affecting governance and accountability.