Accra, December 8, 2025 — GhanaSpeak News Desk
A major political controversy has erupted after a representative of the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) appeared to confirm the existence of a WhatsApp group that includes senior journalists, civil society actors, and officials from state accountability institutions.
The comment, made during a live interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile, suggested the group includes the Auditor-General and even representatives of the Supreme Court.
The OSP official’s remark came during a discussion on corruption and ethical reform. When asked by journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni about coordination between the OSP and government actors, the official replied, “There is a government WhatsApp group that we are on… to chart a new path on ethics and corruption policy.”
He later attempted to clarify the point, insisting the group was “not influenced” by government direction.
Social media reaction was immediate. The hashtag #Abanfooaba trended within hours, with many users questioning why journalists and oversight institutions would be part of a group apparently coordinated by the ruling administration. The timing also added fuel to the controversy, with the comment occurring on the first anniversary of President John Mahama’s 2024 election victory.
Opposition figures quickly moved to frame the development as evidence of political interference. In a Twitter Space hosted hours later, contributors described the group as a “narrative-shaping circle” protecting government interests at a time of increasing economic pressure and complaints of rising unemployment.
Franklin Cudjoe of IMANI Africa distanced himself from the group, stating that no member of his organization was part of the chat, and raised concerns that such a platform could be used to influence accountability processes.
Unconfirmed reports circulating online suggest that the original WhatsApp group was dissolved shortly after the backlash and replaced with a new one.
The Presidency is yet to issue an official response.
Ghana continues to face questions over youth joblessness and slow progress on the promised 24-hour economy. Opposition figures say the current scandal only reinforces fears that key state institutions are compromised.
GhanaSpeak.com will continue monitoring this developing story.
