Investigative journalism firm Tiger Eye PI has strongly denied allegations that its founder, Anas Aremeyaw Anas, produced and subsequently buried an undercover investigation into corruption in Ghana’s Parliament, describing the claims as “entirely false, contrived, and a figment of Mr. Azeem’s imagination.”
The denial follows comments attributed to anti-corruption campaigner Vitus Azeem, who reportedly alleged that a completed exposé on parliamentary corruption had been previewed to select individuals and then shelved.
In a statement released on Thursday, Tiger Eye PI challenged Mr Azeem to substantiate his claims by providing evidence, including naming any Members of Parliament who supposedly viewed the purported investigation. The outfit maintained that no such undercover work had been conducted or presented to any lawmaker.
While acknowledging that public interest in exposing wrongdoing within the legislature remains high, Tiger Eye PI stressed that public curiosity alone does not amount to evidence of an investigation, nor does it obligate the group to undertake one.
The organisation said it would ordinarily have ignored the allegations, which it noted have resurfaced periodically over the years. However, it chose to respond due to the seriousness of the claims and the stature of the individual making them.
Tiger Eye PI expressed concern that unverified assertions of this nature risk creating a misleading impression that Anas is deliberately withholding evidence of corruption — a claim it categorically rejected.
The statement further argued that such allegations undermine the risks and sacrifices inherent in investigative journalism. The firm recalled the killing of its former team member Ahmed Suale as a sobering reminder of the dangers its personnel face in the line of duty.
Describing Mr Azeem’s remarks as “reckless and irresponsible” in the absence of proof, Tiger Eye PI urged him to back his claims with concrete evidence. The organisation added that individuals who believe such investigations are straightforward should take the initiative themselves.
Reaffirming its mandate, Tiger Eye PI said it remains committed to exposing corruption wherever it exists, but emphasised that decisions on what to investigate, and when, rest solely with the organisation based on prevailing circumstances.
