Appiah-Kubi Backs Duffuor Case Withdrawal: “Half a Loaf Is Better Than None”
Story By:William Mintah Hayford, Assin Foso
Prominent legal practitioner and leading member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Lawyer Andy Appiah-Kubi, has defended the Attorney-General’s controversial decision to file a nolle prosequi in the criminal case involving former Finance Minister Dr. Kwabena Duffuor and seven others over the collapse of uniBank.
The decision to discontinue the prosecution has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from opposition figures, who argue that it undermines the fight against corruption and fosters a culture of impunity. However, Lawyer Appiah-Kubi describes the move as a pragmatic legal strategy rather than a retreat from justice.
Speaking on Rich FM’s Ghana Tesen Morning Show, Mr. Appiah-Kubi explained that the Attorney-General’s action aligns with international best practices in non-conviction-based asset recovery. He noted that, in cases involving politically exposed persons, protracted litigation often yields little result, and pursuing asset recovery without necessarily securing convictions can be a more effective way to protect the public interest.
“This is not a miscarriage of justice, but a strategic application of restorative justice,” he stated. “The goal should be to recover stolen or misappropriated state assets. After all, half a loaf is better than none.”
Despite his support for the Attorney-General’s approach, Mr. Appiah-Kubi cautioned against setting a precedent that could allow corrupt politicians to simply negotiate partial repayments and walk free.
“There must be a clear message that corruption will not be tolerated,” he emphasized. “Asset recovery is vital, but it must go hand-in-hand with accountability.”
The case, which has dragged on for years, stems from the 2018 collapse of uniBank, with Dr. Duffuor and others accused of various financial infractions leading to the bank’s insolvency. The Attorney-General’s decision to discontinue prosecution has reignited national debate about the balance between justice and restitution in high-profile corruption cases.
