The Ghana Integrity Initiative and the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition are urging for the protection of the two househelps involved in a theft case connected to Cecilia Dapaah, the former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources.
The main accused in the case are Patience Botwe, an 18-year-old, and Sarah Agyei, a 30-year-old, who are charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and five counts of stealing.
The anti-graft bodies issued a joint statement calling for a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the matter.
They emphasized the importance of protecting the two househelps named in the case, as they serve as key witnesses to the unfolding events. Ensuring their safety is crucial to obtaining accurate information and ensuring a fair trial.
Ms. Dapaah recently resigned after reports emerged that millions of cedis were stolen from her residence in Abelenkpe, Accra, by her two househelps.
The alleged thefts took place between July and October 2022 and included items such as clothing, handbags, perfumes, jewellery, kente cloth, and men’s suits, amounting to significant value.
In addition to the househelps, three other individuals, identified as Botwe’s current and former boyfriends, and her father, are also facing charges for allegedly being involved in the crime by dishonestly receiving substantial amounts of money.
The anti-graft bodies also emphasized the urgent need to pass the Conduct of Public Officers Bill to strengthen Ghana’s asset declaration regime. This bill aims to amend the existing Asset Declaration Act to establish a robust asset declaration regime.