Special Prosecutor nominee Martin Amidu has vigorously defended his comments that suggested that his allegations of corruption against former government appointees were based on perception.

In what may well be his final epistle as a citizen vigilante, Amidu, who is waiting to be sworn-in as Special Prosecutor said the perception he referred to when he appeared before the Appointments Committee of Parliament were perceptions based on the reality at the time.

He also stated forcefully that he had a duty to protect his sources of information when he appeared before the committee.

The nominee came under a barrage of criticisms from sympathisers of the National Democratic Congress who found the comments disconcerting.

Minority Chief Whip Muntaka Mubarak was the first to challenge the nominee on the perception claim.

“Will you say it is ethical to accuse others based on either perception or intelligence that has not proven?” he quizzed.

Former Deputy Chief of Staff Valerie Sawyer has also taken a swipe at Martin Amidu over the same comment.

In a witty, poetic fashion, the former government appointee said in part, that “I know you will not use unconfirmed intelligence to sentence us.”

But in a response which departs from the usual feisty, hard-hitting epistle from the citizen vigilante, Martin Amidu in a calmer version explained his critics are wrong.

“Before then I wish to say my response at my approval public hearing that some of my articles are based on my perceptions and opinions does not mean that they were not based on fact or reality,” he said.

He added: “Those learned in research methods and intelligence know that my answers were intended for the protection of my sources and collection methods giving rise to the conclusions I arrived at in my several articles on corruption and abuse of power for private gain.”

With a new public office position waiting for him, Amidu reiterated he will desist from responding to his critics, however harsh they may be.

“From the moment I take my oath of office, I will be a quasi-judicial officer enjoined to act impartially and independently in the execution of my duties,” he promised.