The New Patriotic Party (NPP) is demanding swift action against individuals allegedly linked to the bribery case involving former Goldman Sachs executive and former Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) Managing Director, Asante Kwaku Berko, following his conviction by a United States federal court.

The opposition party argues that Ghanaian authorities should rely on information and evidence that emerged during the US proceedings rather than starting what it considers another lengthy investigation into matters that have already been examined in court.

The NPP said the case involved allegations of payments to Ghanaian officials in connection with a power plant project and insisted that the identities of persons allegedly implicated should now be subjected to appropriate legal processes in Ghana.

The party said any delay in acting on the available information could undermine public confidence in the country’s fight against corruption.

“People are named. These are known people. They should go and deal with them. But we have been told that they are going to investigate. Investigate what?” NPP Deputy General Secretary Haruna Mohammed said in an interview with Citi FM.

Mr Mohammed further criticised the government’s handling of the matter, arguing that President John Dramani Mahama must demonstrate leadership in dealing with corruption allegations and other issues confronting the country.

His comments follow the conviction of Mr Berko by a US federal jury in Brooklyn on charges arising from an alleged bribery scheme involving Ghanaian government officials and a power plant project.

The case has renewed calls for Ghanaian authorities to investigate and, where appropriate, prosecute individuals connected to the Ghanaian aspect of the matter.

Meanwhile, the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) has commenced investigations into the Ghanaian dimension of the case, including efforts to trace funds and assets that may be connected to suspected criminal conduct.