- Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem Sai says an investigation does not equal criminal liability
- he probe includes the controversial mathematical sets procurement during his education ministry tenure
- Most government officials under investigation are reportedly cooperating without media spectacle
Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem Sai has confirmed that Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the former Minister for Energy and Education—commonly known as NAPO—is currently under investigation by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB).
Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on Wednesday night, Dr. Srem Sai clarified that the investigation alone does not imply guilt or wrongdoing on the part of the former minister.
“He mentioned himself that he’s been visiting the NIB for some time now—no one knew until he said it publicly,” Dr. Srem Sai noted.
The investigations reportedly focus on various projects undertaken during Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s tenure in both the Energy and Education Ministries throughout the eight-year administration of President Nana Akufo-Addo.
When asked for specifics, Dr. Srem Sai said, “There are a number of things. He served as minister in two key sectors, so naturally, questions are being asked about projects that took place under his watch.”
One such matter involves the controversial procurement of mathematical sets during his time at the Education Ministry. However, Dr. Srem Sai emphasized that being called in for questioning does not equate to criminal culpability.
“You’re not going to be prosecuted unless there is clear evidence linking you to wrongdoing,” he said. “Simply being a minister does not automatically make you criminally responsible.”
He referenced the Sky Train project as an example, noting that former Attorney General and later Railway Minister Joe Ghartey was also invited by investigators but was ultimately not charged after providing explanations.
Dr. Srem Sai urged the public not to confuse ministerial oversight with direct personal involvement or liability. “Things may occur within a ministry that are not necessarily the doing of the minister,” he stated. “An invitation to answer questions does not mean guilt.”
He also commended the professional conduct of many current and former government officials under investigation, applauding their quiet cooperation with authorities.
“I admire how many appointees are respecting the process. You rarely hear about them in the media, but many have been invited, arrested, or are on bail—and they are going through the system without spectacle.”
Although he acknowledged that some individuals stir media attention or mobilize supporters when invited by investigative bodies like EOCO, Dr. Srem Sai stressed that most follow the legal process quietly and respectfully.
“You go to court when there is evidence of a crime,” he concluded.
