Awarding winning actress, Yvonne Okyere, has shared her opinion on the ongoing bribery scandal that has hit Ghana’s judiciary, following an investigation by undercover journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
An investigative piece conducted by the ace journalist revealed some 34 court judges were caught on camera taking bribes and extorting money from litigants. Over one hundred officials of the Judicial Service were also cited in the expose that took more than two years to execute.
Anas videotaped and audio recorded conversations with suspects or persons acting as agents for the judges. After pieces of the investigation became public, the Judiciary through the disciplinary committee has started inviting officials implicated in the video.
Reacting to the saga on Friday, Yvonne Okyere, has condemned bribery and corruption in the Judiciary. According to her, lawyers swear to tell the truth and so they should. “This should be a reminder to all of us in the legal system to be true and not be swayed by things which appear to ‘glitter’ – we all know how the saying goes!” she posted on her Facebook page, Friday.
Below is her full statement:
When someone commits a crime innocent people rely on the legal system for justice to prevail. The legal system cannot fail them. For why then are we as lawyers and judges in this system? We swear to tell the truth and so we should. Imagine the many innocent poor souls thrown into jail while the judges allegedly took the money and other items? It’s wrong on all levels. This should be a reminder to all of us in the legal system to be true and not be swayed by things which appear to “glitter”- we all know how the saying goes! If this allegation is proven then the judges must come clean for it would only appease a lot of people who have been wronged in the process. This should be a great learning point to rebuild our legal system.
Corruption and Bribery MUST STOP. It kills and takes away people’s hopes and dreams.
The actress is not new to the legal terrain, having practised Law in the UK. She will be called to the Ghana Bar next month after successfully completing her course at the Ghana Law School.
Source: Alfred Sarpong I www.viasat1.com.gh
