Accra-based investigative outfit Tiger Eye PI has rejected claims that its founder, Anas Aremeyaw Anas, produced and withheld an exposé on alleged corruption in Parliament, describing the allegation as false and without basis.
The group was responding to comments attributed to anti-corruption campaigner Vitus Azeem, who reportedly suggested that an undercover investigation into Parliament had been completed, previewed and subsequently shelved.
In a statement, Tiger Eye PI said the claims were “entirely false, contrived, and a figment of Mr. Azeem’s imagination”, stressing that neither Anas nor any member of the organisation had made such assertions.
The group challenged Mr Azeem to provide evidence to support his claims, including naming any Members of Parliament who allegedly previewed the purported investigation. It maintained that no such work had been conducted or presented to any lawmakers.
Tiger Eye PI said it would ordinarily have ignored the claims, which it noted had resurfaced over the years, but chose to respond due to the seriousness of the allegations and the stature of the individual making them.
While acknowledging public interest in exposing wrongdoing within Parliament, the organisation stressed that such interest alone does not constitute evidence of an investigation, nor does it compel the group to undertake one.
The statement also expressed concern that unverified claims of this nature could create a misleading impression that Anas was deliberately withholding evidence of corruption, an assertion it categorically rejected.
Tiger Eye PI further argued that the allegations undermine the risks and sacrifices associated with investigative journalism, citing the killing of its former team member Ahmed Suale as a reminder of the dangers involved in its work.
The organisation described Mr Azeem’s remarks as “reckless and irresponsible” in the absence of proof and urged him to substantiate his claims. It added that individuals who believe such investigations are straightforward should take the initiative themselves.
Reaffirming its mandate, Tiger Eye PI said it remained committed to exposing corruption but emphasised that decisions on what to investigate, and when, rest solely with the organisation based on prevailing circumstances.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com