Ken Kuranchie, legal counsel for Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, former Board Chairman of the Public Procurement Authority, has strongly affirmed his client’s innocence following his recent detention by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB). The investigation, which has drawn considerable public attention, revolves around financial matters linked to his tenure as Board Chairman of the Ghana Infrastructural Investment Fund (GIIF).
While the full details of the case remain undisclosed, Kuranchie has insisted that due legal process must be followed and has expressed confidence that his client will be vindicated.
Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi, a respected academic and public servant, was taken into custody as part of ongoing inquiries into financial approvals made during his time at the GIIF. The government’s interest in these approvals has raised questions about the financial oversight and governance of the institution under his leadership. Despite the seriousness of the investigation, Kuranchie has been unwavering in his assertion that his client is not guilty of any wrongdoing. Speaking to Citi News’ Samuel Ackom, he stated, “Investigations have just started, so let us wait and see what turns out next. My client is innocent. He is innocent of absolutely all charges. But we shall see; let the government build its case.”
The detention of Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi by the NIB signals the government’s commitment to scrutinizing financial transactions within state institutions. The Ghana Infrastructural Investment Fund, a crucial entity responsible for funding national development projects, has been under increasing scrutiny regarding financial approvals and expenditures. Authorities are keen to ensure that funds allocated for infrastructure development are managed with the highest level of integrity. However, Kuranchie maintains that his client has always acted in good faith and in the best interest of the country.
Sources close to the investigation indicate that the inquiry is centered on specific financial decisions made during Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi’s tenure at GIIF. These decisions, which reportedly involve the approval of significant amounts for projects, have drawn the attention of investigators who are seeking to establish whether there were any irregularities or breaches of financial regulations. While some have speculated that the investigation could lead to legal action, Kuranchie has dismissed such claims, emphasizing that Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi has nothing to hide.
“This is a matter of due process,” Kuranchie said. “The government has the right to investigate, and we respect that. But I can say without hesitation that my client has conducted himself with the utmost integrity. There is no wrongdoing on his part. The facts will bear this out.”
Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi, who has an extensive career in academia and public service, has served in various capacities within Ghana’s government. His tenure at the GIIF was marked by efforts to enhance infrastructure development through strategic investments. Given his track record, supporters argue that his detention and the subsequent investigation may be politically motivated. Others, however, believe that no individual, regardless of stature, should be exempt from accountability.
While the NIB has yet to release an official statement on the specifics of the case, legal analysts suggest that the investigation could take weeks or even months before any conclusive findings are made. In the meantime, Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi’s legal team remains prepared to challenge any allegations should they arise. “We are ready to defend him against any claims,” Kuranchie affirmed. “There is no evidence of financial misconduct. We expect a fair and transparent process, and we trust that justice will prevail.”
The case has sparked discussions about governance and accountability in Ghana’s public institutions. As a former Board Chairman of both the Public Procurement Authority and GIIF, Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi played a key role in decision-making processes that impacted national infrastructure projects. While some view his detention as part of a broader effort to clean up public financial management, others believe it is essential to allow the legal process to unfold without undue speculation.
Many within the political and academic circles have come out in support of Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi, describing him as a man of integrity who has dedicated his life to serving the nation. Colleagues and former associates have expressed shock at his detention, questioning the timing and motives behind the investigation. One former associate, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated, “Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi has always been committed to transparency and development. It is difficult to believe that he would be involved in any financial impropriety. I hope the investigation is handled with fairness.”
Amid the ongoing legal process, some observers have called on the government to ensure that the investigation is conducted in an impartial manner. Human rights advocates and legal experts have emphasized the importance of upholding the presumption of innocence, noting that premature judgments could harm reputations and undermine confidence in the judicial system. “Every citizen deserves a fair investigation,” said legal expert Kwame Osei. “It is crucial that this case is handled with due diligence, and no conclusions should be drawn until all the facts are available.”
The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the trajectory of the case. If the investigation reveals any evidence of misconduct, legal proceedings may follow. However, if no wrongdoing is found, Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi’s reputation will need to be restored, as such high-profile cases can have lasting implications on public perception.
Kuranchie, who has been vocal in defending his client, remains optimistic that justice will prevail. “Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi has served this country with distinction,” he stated. “He is a man of principle, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that the truth comes to light. Let us allow the legal process to take its course.”
As the investigation unfolds, the public will be watching closely, eager to see whether this case will serve as a precedent for greater transparency in Ghana’s public financial management or whether it will highlight the challenges of navigating political and legal complexities. Either way, the outcome will likely have far-reaching consequences for both governance and accountability in the country. In the meantime, Prof. Ameyaw-Akumfi and his legal team remain resolute in their stance, waiting for the government to present its case while maintaining firm belief in his innocence.
