“Release Him or Charge Him” – NPP Puts EOCO on the Spot Over Miracle Aboagye Arrest

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has mounted pressure on the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to either charge Dennis Miracles Aboagye in court or release him immediately, following his arrest at the airport this weekend.

According to the NPP, Mr. Aboagye who recently announced his intention to contest for a National Communication position in the party just hours ago was picked up by EOCO officers with the assistance of Immigration officials.

The party said since his detention, his lawyers have been denied access to him and his whereabouts have not been disclosed to family or party officials.

No charges have also been preferred against him, it added.

In a strongly worded statement, the NPP said the manner of the arrest and continued detention raises serious questions about due process and the use of state institutions.

The party argued that Mr. Aboagye is entitled to the protections guaranteed under Article 14(2) of the 1992 Constitution, which provides for the right to be informed of reasons for arrest and to have access to legal representation.

“Let us be clear about what this is. It is not law enforcement. It is intimidation,” the statement said.

The NPP pointed out that Mr. Aboagye has been one of the most vocal critics of the current administration, particularly on issues of galamsey and governance.

The NPP demanded that EOCO release Mr. Aboagye immediately, or charge him and produce him before a court of competent jurisdiction; that he be granted unrestricted access to his lawyers and family without further delay; and that the government ends what the party described as a pattern of politically motivated invitations, arrests and detentions targeting members of the NPP.

The party cautioned EOCO and those directing its operations that state institutions must not be used as tools for partisan purposes.

“Ghanaians are watching, and Ghana’s institutions will outlive this government,” the NPP said.

The NPP has also called on its members and supporters to remain calm, lawful and united.

“Intimidation has never silenced this party, and it will not begin today,” the statement added.