TIG Post

Tag: Court

  • Court reduces Adu Boahene’s bail sum to GHc80m

    Court reduces Adu Boahene’s bail sum to GHc80m

    An Accra Human Rights Court has revised the bail conditions of Kwabena Adu Boahene, former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), following a legal challenge from his defense team.

    Adu Boahene’s bail amount, initially set at GH¢120 million, has been reduced to GH¢80 million with two sureties, one of whom must provide justification. However, the bail conditions for his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng, remain unchanged at GH¢80 million with two sureties to be justified.

    The couple has also been mandated to report to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) three times a week and are prohibited from traveling without EOCO’s explicit approval.

    Their legal team, led by Samuel Atta Akyea Esq, had petitioned the court to review the bail terms, arguing that the initial conditions were excessive and could serve as a means to extend their detention unlawfully. The court ultimately ruled in favor of a reduction, granting relief to the former NSB boss.

    However, Deputy Attorney-General Justice Srem Sai contended that Adu Boahene and his wife posed a flight risk, citing concerns that they might possess additional foreign passports. He further alleged that Angela Adjei Boateng attempted to destroy potential evidence by packing large sums of cash into suitcases on the night she learned of her husband’s arrest.

    Background

    Adu Boahene was apprehended at Kotoka International Airport upon arrival from London on a British Airways flight, while his wife was taken into custody when she visited EOCO to check on him. They are both being investigated for their alleged involvement in the embezzlement of state funds.

    According to Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine, the case revolves around financial irregularities in a $7 million cyber defense system contract signed on January 30, 2020, between the Government of Ghana and RLC Holdings Limited, an Israeli firm. The deal was aimed at strengthening Ghana’s cybersecurity infrastructure.

    Investigations suggest that instead of directing the allocated funds towards the project, Adu Boahene engaged in unauthorized financial transactions. On February 6, 2020—just days after the agreement was signed—he allegedly transferred GH¢27.1 million from the National Signals Bureau’s Fidelity Bank account into a private UMB account belonging to BNC, a company he co-founded with his wife.

    The Attorney-General’s office has accused him of laundering the funds through real estate investments in Ghana and abroad. The case remains under investigation, with the authorities closely monitoring developments.

  • Man arrested for assaulting woman with 8-month-old baby remanded

    Man arrested for assaulting woman with 8-month-old baby remanded

    An Accra-based Gender Violence Court has remanded into custody the suspect Nii Baah Afful for his involvement in an assault case. The suspect has been remanded for two weeks to reappear before the court on the 9th of April 2025.

    It will be recalled that the Accra Regional Police Command arrested suspect Nii Baah Afful, a 29-year-old fisherman, in connection with a viral video showing him assaulting a woman carrying an 8-month-old baby.

    The incident occurred on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Korle Gonno, a suburb of Accra, after a misunderstanding between the couple.

    According to preliminary investigations, the suspect and the victim, Francisca Aryee, 21, live together and have two children. The victim attempted to leave for her mother’s house but was pursued and assaulted by the suspect.

    The Police Intelligence Unit of the Region arrested the suspect on Friday, March 22, 2025, at around 5 pm. The suspect has been detained for further action, and the victim has been traced and identified to receive necessary medical care and counseling.

    The swift action taken by the Accra Regional Police Command demonstrates its commitment to ensuring justice and safety for all citizens.

  • Ahmed Suale: Murder charge against my client shambolic – Suspect’s lawyer

    Ahmed Suale: Murder charge against my client shambolic – Suspect’s lawyer

    The decision by the Madina District Court to charge Daniel Owusu Koranteng with murder in connection with the death of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale has been met with strong opposition from his legal counsel, Kofi Essel.

    Essel has criticized the move, describing the charge as “shambolic” and arguing that it is based on unfounded allegations driven by ulterior motives rather than solid evidence.

    Initially, authorities had considered charging Koranteng with abetment but later opted for a murder charge, claiming he was near Suale’s Madina residence at the time of the journalist’s fatal shooting in January 2019.

    Dismissing these claims, Essel insisted that the prosecution has failed to present any concrete evidence to support the charge.

    “The police hurriedly put a charge together on the offense of murder. First, they were talking about abietment, now we are talking about a surprise charge sheet of one count of murder. They prayed to the court to remand our client with no basis. I describe this as a shambolic charge sheet.

    “Because they have nothing on our client. It is just a multitude of allegations on hearsay that have been put together. It is just for someone’s career to shoot up, and someone has to go down; that is a witch-hunt, and we are going to deal with that,” he stated.

  • KNUST murder case: Court adjourns trial to April 1

    KNUST murder case: Court adjourns trial to April 1

    A Kumasi court has adjourned the case of the KNUST student, Daniel Tuffour, accused of murdering Joana Yabane, to April 1, 2025.

    During the latest court session, prosecutors informed the judge that the case docket had been forwarded to the Attorney-General’s office for legal advice.

    As a result, the court ruled that Tuffour should be remanded until the next hearing.

    Tuffour, who was first remanded on February 28, is facing intense scrutiny as the case continues to gain public attention. The tragic incident has left the KNUST community in shock, with students and faculty closely following developments.

    Authorities have assured the public that justice will be served as investigations progress.

  • Supreme Court to hear Akwatia MP’s Ernest Kumi contempt case

    Supreme Court to hear Akwatia MP’s Ernest Kumi contempt case

    The Supreme Court has ruled by a 4-1 majority that Ernest Yaw Kumi, the Akwatia Member of Parliament (MP), is entitled to a hearing regarding a contempt charge filed against him.

    Justice Gabriel Pwamang dissented, while the other four justices agreed to allow the case to proceed.

    The court has postponed the main case to March 26, 2025. A detailed ruling will be provided on March 21. The contempt case itself has also been adjourned to the same date for hearing.

    The case began after the Koforidua High Court convicted MP Kumi on February 19, for disregarding an interim injunction that prevented him from being sworn in as a legislator. Following his failure to appear for sentencing, a bench warrant was issued for his arrest.

    Kumi, in his motion for certiorari and prohibition, argued that the High Court had no jurisdiction to handle the Parliamentary Election Petition for Akwatia Constituency, as the Electoral Commission had not yet published the required Gazette Notification.

    He seeks a ruling that the petition filed by Henry Boakye-Yiadom on December 31, 2024, is invalid, and consequently, any orders or rulings based on it should be deemed void.

    The MP is also requesting the Supreme Court to annul the Koforidua High Court’s ruling, as well as the interim injunction and subsequent orders made in January 2025, all related to the premature petition.

  • Stay true to the economic record – Oppong-Nkrumah to Finance Minister

    Stay true to the economic record – Oppong-Nkrumah to Finance Minister

    Ofoase Ayirebi MP, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah, has warned the Finance Minister against including unverified debts in the national budget, cautioning that it could open the door for fraudulent claims against the government.

    In an interview with the media on Monday, March 10, he emphasized that adding questionable liabilities would not only misrepresent Ghana’s fiscal position but also create opportunities for the misuse of public funds.

    “We advise him, stay true to the economic record. Don’t admit phantom debts and phantom figures that people bring to try and bloat the books,” he stated.

    Kojo Oppong Nkrumah cited to a case from 2009 during the NDC administration when a new budget category was introduced for legal compensations.

    He noted that this measure was misused by certain individuals, resulting in a widely criticized financial scandal.

    “The last time they did that, if you recall, in 2009, when they admitted phantom debts and created cost centers for it, it became an avenue for people to put things there and collect money. That’s what the Supreme Court described as create, loot, and share,” he recalled.

    The former Akufo-Addo administration’s Minister for Works and Housing and Information has advised the government to be cautious in recognizing liabilities, warning that endorsing unverified debts could result in unjustified payouts to individuals or organizations without legitimate claims.

    He emphasized the need to prevent fraudulent financial claims, stating that incorporating suspicious debts would create loopholes for exploitation by entities not genuinely owed by the state.

    Beyond the potential financial risks, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah cautioned that inflating Ghana’s debt figures could distort the country’s economic outlook and send unfavorable signals to investors.

    “It is important to avoid admitting dubious or doubtful debts, as this will be exploited by persons who the state doesn’t owe,” he emphasized.

    He urged the Finance Minister to ensure transparency and accuracy in financial disclosures, stressing the importance of maintaining credibility in economic reporting to prevent unnecessary panic in financial markets.

    “He should keep fidelity with the economic records of the country and avoid spooking the markets with lamentations,” he advised.

    His comments come amid ongoing discussions on Ghana’s economic trajectory, particularly rising debt levels and fiscal challenges.

    Meanwhile, Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson is set to present the 2025 Budget and Economic Policy to Parliament tomorrow.

  • Court remands painter accused of stealing BoG’s electrical cables worth over GHc1,000,000

    Court remands painter accused of stealing BoG’s electrical cables worth over GHc1,000,000

    A painter working on the Bank of Ghana building at Ridge, Accra, has been remanded into police custody for allegedly stealing large quantities of assorted copper cables valued at GH¢1,035,500.

    Ahmed Mohammed Lawal was arrested after a review of CCTV footage reportedly captured him and two accomplices—who are currently at large—removing the cables from the site. He appeared before an Accra Circuit Court, where he pleaded not guilty to charges of unlawful entry and stealing.

    The court, presided over by Mrs. Sedinam Awo Kwadam, adjourned the case to March 19, 2025, while police continue efforts to apprehend Lawal’s accomplices.

    Prosecuting the case, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Augustin Kingsley Oppong told the court that the complainants, Samuel Nii Tettey and Davidson Mensah Otinkorang, are a safety officer and an electrical engineer, respectively, working on the new Bank of Ghana building, which is still under construction.

    According to ASP Oppong, on February 16, 2025, the complainants discovered that someone had broken into the Energy Farm—a section of the construction site—and stolen bundles of LC x 240 square and LC x 300 square copper cables, all valued at over GH¢1 million.

    This prompted a review of the site’s CCTV footage, which allegedly revealed Lawal and his accomplices cutting and removing the cables. Following this discovery, the accused was apprehended and handed over to the police.

    Investigations later uncovered that the suspects had gained access to the secured area by using a scaffold. “The accused person and his accomplices cut the copper cables with a sharp object and took them (the cables) away,” ASP Oppong told the court.

    Further inquiries revealed that the stolen cables were sold to an individual at Kwame Nkrumah Circle, with Lawal receiving GH¢2,000 as his share of the proceeds. However, he was unable to assist the police in locating his accomplices or the individual who purchased the stolen materials.

    Prosecution assured the court that investigations were still ongoing.

  • Suspect involved in fatal shooting at Nungua enstoolment ceremony remanded

    Suspect involved in fatal shooting at Nungua enstoolment ceremony remanded

    A District Court has ordered the remand of Samuel Adjei in police custody over a deadly shooting during an enstoolment ceremony in Nungua on Saturday, February 22.

    Facing a murder charge, Adjei appeared before the court on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, after being linked to the fatal incident.

    Police investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly fired live rounds from a single-barrel gun during the ceremony, striking Naa Borley Ahmed in the right thigh.

    Despite being rushed to the hospital for emergency care, she succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment.

    Authorities arrested Adjei shortly after the incident and brought him before the court, which ruled for his remand.

    His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, 2025.

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  • 2024 elections: Annoh-Dompreh, EC to appear before court on March 14

    2024 elections: Annoh-Dompreh, EC to appear before court on March 14

    A bailiff from the Koforidua High Court executed a substituted service order on Tuesday, February 25, instructing Frank Annoh-Dompreh, the Nsawam Adoagyiri MP, as well as the Electoral Commission and the Clerk of Parliament, to appear before the court on March 14.

    The directive stems from a petition filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), contesting the Electoral Commission’s declaration of Annoh-Dompreh as the duly elected MP.

    Led by parliamentary candidate Fummey Selorm Philibert, the NDC’s legal team is challenging the credibility of the Electoral Commission’s announcement.

    To ensure proper notification, court documents were posted at various locations, including the High Court, the NPP office, the Electoral Commission, the police station, the Main Lorry Station, Fawe FM, and selected community information centers.

    Following multiple failed attempts to serve Annoh-Dompreh in person, the Koforidua High Court, on February 21, approved substituted service, authorizing alternative means of notification.

    Despite previous instructions for extensive efforts to be made, both Annoh-Dompreh and Electoral Commission officials from Nsawam Adoagyiri failed to appear for the court session on January 23, 2025.

  • Court issues bench warrant for Akwatia MP’s arrest

    Court issues bench warrant for Akwatia MP’s arrest

    A High Court in Koforidua has ordered the arrest of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the Akwatia MP, after finding him guilty of contempt.

    Reports suggest the court issued the warrant after Kumi failed to show up for proceedings.

    The lawmaker had ignored a temporary court injunction from January 7, 2025, which barred him from assuming office as Akwatia’s MP due to an unresolved legal dispute over the election.

    However, he disregarded the directive and took the oath of office in Parliament that same day.

    Presiding over the case, Justice Senyo Amedahe noted that Kumi had repeatedly skipped court hearings on the matter.

    He also dismissed a letter from the Minority caucus citing parliamentary commitments as the reason for Kumi’s absence, stating that accepting such a justification would contradict the court’s decision.

  • Court issues bench warrant for Akwatia MP after being held in contempt

    Court issues bench warrant for Akwatia MP after being held in contempt

    The High Court in Koforidua has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Ernest Yaw Kumi, the Member of Parliament for Akwatia, after finding him guilty of contempt of court.

    The ruling stems from Kumi’s decision to ignore an interim injunction that prohibited him from being sworn in as a legislator. Despite the court order, he proceeded to take the oath of office in Parliament.

    Presiding over the case, Justice Senyo Amedahe ruled that Kumi’s actions constituted a deliberate disregard for the court’s authority.

    The judge further dismissed an attempt by the Minority Caucus in Parliament to justify the MP’s absence from the sentencing hearing through an official letter.

    With the bench warrant now in effect, law enforcement agencies are expected to act swiftly to ensure Kumi’s arrest and compliance with the court’s directives.

  • NPP’s mandamus application on 4 constituencies to be decided by court today

    NPP’s mandamus application on 4 constituencies to be decided by court today

    The mandamus application filed by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) concerning the constituencies of Tema Central, Okaikwei Central, Techiman South, and Ablekuma North will be finally addressed by the High Court will today, Saturday, January 4.

    This follows the court’s earlier dismissal of an objection raised by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), which challenged the court’s jurisdiction over the matter.

    Lawyers for the NPP, led by Gary Nimako, argue that the Electoral Commission (EC) should be compelled to complete the collation of results in the affected constituencies, stating the collation process was left incomplete between December 8, 2024, and January 1, 2025.

    Describing the delay as unreasonable, Nimako stated, “Constituents in these areas have a right to know the results and the winning candidates.”

    He further argued against the NDC’s claim that declarations had already been made in the constituencies, stating, “There is no evidence to support this assertion.” Addressing video evidence presented, Nimako noted that the alleged declaration in Tema Central was made by someone other than the returning officer, which he described as a breach of electoral laws.

    Citing Regulation 43 of C.I. 127, Nimako emphasized that results must be recorded on Forms 1C and 1D of the Electoral Commission. He added, “The absence of these forms in the exhibits corroborates the claim that proper declarations were not made.”

    The Electoral Commission, represented by Justin Amenuvor, supported the NPP’s application and urged the court to direct the completion of the collation process. Amenuvor admitted the collation in the affected constituencies was incomplete, cautioning that failure to issue the order could “set a dangerous precedent, potentially enabling unlawful interference in future elections.”

    However, the NDC’s legal team, led by Godwin Tameklo, opposed the application, arguing that a mandamus can only be granted when a demand has been made and refused. “No such demand has been made in this case,” Tameklo asserted.

    He also referenced the video evidence, claiming it showed a declaration had already occurred in Tema Central, and insisted that any challenge to the validity of the declaration should be handled through a petition, not a mandamus application.

  • Tarkwa Circuit Court jails tiler 22 years for defiling a minor

    Tarkwa Circuit Court jails tiler 22 years for defiling a minor

    A devastating case of child defilement has led to the sentencing of Stephen Otu, a 32-year-old tiler, to 22 years imprisonment with hard labor.

    Otu, popularly known as Atta, pleaded guilty to the charges and begged for mercy, but the court found him guilty and handed down the sentence as a deterrent to others ¹.

    According to Chief Inspector of Police Abraham Ayitey, the prosecution told the court that the victim, a 12-year-old primary six student, was defiled by Otu in Wassa Akropong township. The convict had asked the victim her age, and despite knowing she was only 12, he lured her into his room, assaulted her sexually, and gave her GH¢20.00 after the act.

    The court heard that Otu took advantage of the victim on three separate occasions, resulting in her pregnancy. The victim’s mother discovered her pregnancy on November 24, 2024, and the victim revealed that Otu was responsible. A report was made to the police, and a medical examination confirmed that the victim was two months pregnant.

    The court, presided over by Hathia Ama Manu, sentenced Otu to 22 years imprisonment with hard labor, emphasizing that the sentence would serve as a deterrent to others who might engage in similar acts.

  • Court to hear NDC’s lawsuit against EC over re-collation of parliamentary results on Dec 27

    Court to hear NDC’s lawsuit against EC over re-collation of parliamentary results on Dec 27

    The High Court has scheduled December 27, 2024, to address a lawsuit filed by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) challenging the Electoral Commission’s (EC) decision to re-collate and re-declare parliamentary results in nine disputed constituencies.

    The NDC argues that the EC has acted beyond its legal powers, describing the re-collation process as procedurally improper.

    The constituencies under dispute include Nsawam Adoagyiri, Dome-Kwabenya, Okaikwei Central, Ablekuma North, Tema Central, Obuasi East, Techiman South, Ahafo Ano North, and Ahafo Ano South West.

    On December 21, the EC conducted the re-collation at its Greater Accra Regional Office, leading to a shift in outcomes for seven of the nine constituencies. The revised results now favor New Patriotic Party (NPP) candidates.

  • Justice Cecilia Naa Shormeh Davis sworn in as Court of Appeal Judge

    Justice Cecilia Naa Shormeh Davis sworn in as Court of Appeal Judge

    Justice Cecilia Naa Shormeh Davis has officially joined the Court of Appeal following her swearing-in by President Akufo-Addo.

    The event, held at the Jubilee House on Friday, December 20, 2024, included the administration of the Oath of Allegiance, the Judicial Oath, and the Oath of Secrecy by the President.

    As the newest member of Ghana’s Court of Appeal, Justice Davis becomes part of a 35-member bench in the nation’s second-highest court. Her appointment highlights her dedication to upholding justice and her reputation for delivering fair and unbiased rulings.

    Bringing over nine years of expertise as a High Court judge, Justice Davis is anticipated to contribute significantly to strengthening judicial efficiency and safeguarding the rule of law.

    President Akufo-Addo encouraged her to embrace her role with humility, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to serving the citizens of Ghana.

    He said “As you take on the duty as Justice of the Court of Appeal, I urge you to approach your duty with humility, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility. Remember that the power you wield as a Judge is not for personal gain or aggrandizement but for service to the Ghanaian people.

    Every decision you make should be guided by the principles of fairness, justice and the rule of law. You have a profound obligation to ensure that our Judiciary remains a beacon of hope for the citizenry and a pillar of strength for our democracy.

    Justice Cecilia Davis, the task before you is not an easy one. The decisions you make will have an impact, not only on the parties before you but also on the broader society.”

    Justice Cecilia Naa Shormeh Davis pledged her unwavering commitment to dispensing justice with integrity and fairness.

    “I assure you, Your Excellency that I have just taken three Oaths and I promise to live by them by the Grace of God. I promise to discharge my duties, to dispense justice in accordance with the law, to all manner of persons without fear or favour,” she added.

    Justice Davis’ legal journey began with her appointment as a High Court Judge on July 15, 2016, by then-Chief Justice Georgina Theodora Wood. Her appointment followed a major judicial reform after a corruption scandal rocked the judiciary.

    During her tenure at the High Court, Justice Davis presided over numerous significant cases, solidifying her reputation for promoting justice and adherence to the rule of law. Her rulings consistently emphasized the importance of following proper legal procedures and respecting judicial processes, earning her recognition as a beacon of fairness and diligence in Ghana’s judiciary.

    Justice Davis holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Law and History from the University of Ghana, Legon, and a Barrister-at-Law certificate from the Ghana School of Law, qualifying her as a lawyer in 1990. She also earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance from the University of Ghana Business School and a Certificate in Media Law from the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.

    Her extensive legal background spans roles at the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), the Serious Fraud Office (now EOCO), and the Graphic Communications Group Limited. These diverse roles provided her with invaluable experience, shaping her into a seasoned legal professional and an authoritative voice in the judicial system.

  • Police confirms arrest of 123 persons in recent election-related incidents; 49 processed for court

    Police confirms arrest of 123 persons in recent election-related incidents; 49 processed for court

    Ghana Police Service has announced that 123 people have been arrested in relation to election-related incidents.

    In a statement released on December 12, 2024, the Police provided an update on the current security situation in the country.

    “The Police wish to inform the public that the 123 persons so far arrested are being taken through the due process of the law,” the statement read.

    The Ghana Police Service, collaborating with various security agencies through the National Election Security Taskforce, is working diligently to maintain peace.

    “The Ghana Police Service, in collaboration with other security agencies under the National Election Security Taskforce, continues to provide security to ensure that Ghana remains at peace with itself,” they affirmed.

    “Over the past 24 hours, there has not been any major security incident across the country. We urge the public to continue to go about their normal socio-economic activities as the Police continue to implement stringent security measures to ensure their safety and protect their properties,” the Police stated.

    Legal actions have been initiated out of the 123 arrests: “Out of the total number of suspects arrested, 49 have been processed for court, with 16 granted court bail, while 33 have been remanded into Police and Prisons custody to reappear on later dates.”

    Additionally, the statement detailed, “Additionally, 70 suspects have been granted Police Inquiry Bail in compliance with the constitutional requirement to process suspects for court within 48 hours.”

    Four more suspects arrested within the last 24 hours are currently in custody, with the Police indicating, “Four (4) other suspects who were arrested within the last 24 hours are currently in Police custody and will be put before the court tomorrow.”

    The Police are coordinating with the Office of the Attorney General to handle these cases appropriately.

    The statement also addressed rumours concerning the safety of the Efutu National Democratic Congress (NDC) Constituency 2nd Vice-Chairman, Mr Abraham Ato Anan, stating, “With regards to the incident involving the whereabouts of the Efutu National Democratic Congress (NDC) Constituency 2nd Vice-Chairman, Mr Abraham Ato Anan, we wish to state that the chairman is in good health and with his family and in contact with the Police. We, therefore, urge the public to disregard the misinformation and disinformation regarding his whereabouts.”

    Concluding, the police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and security: “Once again, we want to assure the public that the Police remain committed to ensuring peace, security, law, and order in the country.”

  • Tribunal rejects GCNet’s GHS4bn claim, orders $2.1m legal fee payment to Ghana

    Tribunal rejects GCNet’s GHS4bn claim, orders $2.1m legal fee payment to Ghana

    An international arbitration tribunal in London has rejected the GH¢4 billion claim made by Ghana Community Network Services Limited (GCNet) against the Republic of Ghana.

    In a detailed 202-page ruling dated November 18, 2024, the tribunal ruled in Ghana’s favour, ordering GCNet to pay $2,185,983.21 in legal fees.

    The awarded amount includes $1,744,050.42 for legal representation and $441,932.79 for the costs of Ghana’s expert witness.

    The total will accrue interest at the USD SOFR + 1% rate from 30 days after the award until payment is made.

    GCNet, represented by Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP, alongside Ghanaian firms Beyou and Co. and ENS Africa, contested the termination of a Service Agreement by the Government of Ghana.

    The agreement, which had been in effect since 2002, granted GCNet exclusive rights to develop and manage an electronic system for processing customs payments and trade documents at Ghana’s ports. Despite several extensions, the agreement was terminated by the NPP administration in April 2020 following a value-for-money assessment.

    GCNet sought compensation amounting to GH¢3.3 billion for wrongful termination and other alleged breaches, including GH¢2.1 billion for termination and GH¢1.19 billion for breaches related to government exemptions and discounts for importers. The company also sought pre-award interest and legal fees.

    Represented by the Attorney-General’s office led by Godfred Yeboah Dame, Ghana argued that the agreement had a specific framework for assessing GCNet’s entitlements, limiting compensation to $6 million.

    The tribunal upheld Ghana’s position, ruling that the termination was valid and that GCNet had waived its right to claim damages for exemptions and discounts.

    The tribunal awarded GCNet $5.4 million for early termination but found that GCNet was the unsuccessful party, making it liable for Ghana’s legal costs. This ruling is a significant win for Ghana, saving the nation billions of cedis.

  •  26 involved in Abetifi violence remanded into police custody for 6 days

     26 involved in Abetifi violence remanded into police custody for 6 days

    The Mpraeso District Court has remanded 26 individuals, including one female, into police custody for six days following their alleged involvement in a violent incident at the Abetifi Palace.

    The suspects are set to reappear on November 14, 2024, in connection with the arrest and kidnapping of Akyemfour Asiedu Agyemang III, the Kwahu Abetifihene.

    The clash, which occurred on Thursday, November 7, escalated when a group of armed men, led by Obaapanyin Yaa Asantewaa, attempted to destool Akyemfour Asiedu Agyemang III, who also serves as the acting President of the Kwahu Traditional Area.

    Yaa Asantewaa, posing as the Abrewatia (chief’s wife), arrived in Abetifi with her entourage and allegedly took the acting President to a nearby older palace, where she performed traditional rites, including the ritual slaughter of a sheep, to depose him.

    The attempted destoolment triggered protests from local youth, who armed themselves with machetes in response to the news. Six individuals were injured in the violence that followed.

  • Four courts closed due to Bawku conflict reopened

    Four courts closed due to Bawku conflict reopened

    Four courts in the Upper East Region, previously closed due to the escalating conflict in Bawku, have been reopened on the orders of Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo.

    The courts were initially directed to shut down on October 29 after judges and court staff raised concerns about their safety.

    The closure affected the High Court, Circuit Court, and District Court in Bolgatanga, as well as the District Court in Bongo. However, areas like Bolgatanga, Zuarungu, and Bongo, which are located several kilometers away from the conflict zone, voiced dissatisfaction with the directive and promptly petitioned the Chief Justice for the reopening.

    In response, a circular dated November 8 and signed by Judicial Service Secretary, Justice Cyra Pamela Koranteng JA, confirmed the reopening of the courts, reversing the earlier closure notice.

    After a period of relative calm, violence erupted again following the return of Alhaji Seidu Abagre, a rival chief who had been in exile since February 2023.

    Abagre had previously fled Bawku due to an arrest warrant issued against him after his controversial installation as chief in Nalerigu.

    However, a High Court ruling in Kumasi on October 17, 2024, annulled the warrant, enabling him to come back. His return on October 26 reignited the longstanding chieftaincy conflict, resulting in gunfire that claimed two lives and left several others injured.

    The community is now grappling with heightened tensions and concerns over potential further violence.

    In response to the unrest, a curfew from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm has been imposed, and security forces are actively enforcing these restrictions to help restore order.

    About 21 people are believed to have been killed.

  • Call off the strike – Court orders CLOGSAG

    Call off the strike – Court orders CLOGSAG

    The High Court in Accra has ordered the Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) to end its strike action.

    CLOGSAG initiated a nationwide strike on November 7, citing delays by the government in finalizing a revised salary structure.

    In a statement dated October 22, CLOGSAG had announced its plan to strike, anticipating that the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) would not meet the October 31 deadline to complete the new structure.

    This decision stemmed from the government’s failure to implement the proposed salary adjustments, despite signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) over a year and a half ago.

    In a statement released on Monday, November 4, CLOGSAG’s Executive Secretary, Isaac Bampoe Addo, expressed doubts that the new salary structure could realistically take effect by January 1, 2025.

    Meanwhile, the National Labour Commission (NLC) has secured an injunction to halt the strike.

    The court order signed by Justice Frank Aboadwe Rockson noted that “UPON READING the affidavit of OFOSU ASAMOAH of House No. C199 Norley Afia Street Nmai -Djorn, Accra, the Executive Secretary for the Applicant herein filed on 7th day of November, 2024 in support of Motion Ex-Parte for an order for Interlocutory Injunction:

    AND UPON HEARING the submission of ALEXANDER OWUSU JUNIOR ESQ., Counsel for and on behalf of the Applicant herein:

    IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the Respondent, their Executives Officers, Members, Agents, Servants, Employees and other Persons are restrained from further continuation of their strike action from 7th November, 2024.

    IT IS HEREBY FURTHER ORDERED that the Respondent by itself, its Executives, Officers, Members, Agents, Servants, Employees and other Persons are to comply with the directives of the National Labour Commission dated 6th November, 2024 and call off the industrial action.”

  • Court denies Oliver Barker-Vormawor bail a third time

    Court denies Oliver Barker-Vormawor bail a third time

    The convenor of the anti-galamsey protest organized by the Democracy Hub, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has once again been denied bail by the Circuit Court, marking the third time his bail request has been refused since his arrest during the demonstration two weeks ago.

    The Attorney General’s Department opposed his latest bail application, leading to the court’s decision. Prior to this, both the Accra High Court and the Circuit Court had similarly denied his bail.

    In contrast, Fanny Otoo, another detainee who has been unwell since her arrest, was granted bail of GH₵20,000 with two sureties. The case has been adjourned to October 14, 2024.

    Ama Governor and eight other protestors were granted bail, set at GHC70,000 each, while twelve additional protestors, including Felicity Nelson, received bail under distinct sureties.

    The bail granted on Monday came with varying terms, complicating the ongoing legal battle that carries significant implications for civil rights and environmental activism in Ghana.

    Earlier today, the State filed an affidavit opposing the bail applications for 20 other anti-galamsey detainees. This came after the State claimed they had not been served with the applications, despite court documents showing service had been completed on October 2.

    The judge has directed that the protestors’ lawyers properly serve the State, and the case for the remaining detainees has been adjourned to Wednesday, October 9.

  • Barker-Vormawor denied bail again over possible public unrest upon release

    Barker-Vormawor denied bail again over possible public unrest upon release

    Convener of the Democracy Hub, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has once again had his bail application rejected by an Accra High Court following his recent arrest during an anti-galamsey protest.

    The court, presided over by Justice Comfort Tasiame, ruled that releasing Barker-Vormawor could lead to public unrest, citing concerns about his prior charges and ongoing investigations.

    Barker-Vormawor was detained during a demonstration against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, a practice that continues to pose grave environmental threats to Ghana.

    According to police reports, he was arrested for alleged illegal activities during the protest, including an incident where he was reportedly seen removing the keys from a parked police van. Details surrounding the alleged misconduct remain under investigation.

    In her ruling, Justice Tasiame explained that Barker-Vormawor is already facing treason charges, raising doubts about whether he would refrain from further offenses if released.

    Barker-Vormawor’s legal team argued that his continued detention infringes on his constitutional rights to free expression and peaceful assembly.

    They pointed out that the protest was non-violent and aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of illegal mining.

    While Barker-Vormawor remains in custody, other protesters, including Felicity Nelson, have been granted bail. Nelson was released on a bail of 20,000 cedis with two sureties. Additionally, Ama Governor and 8 others have been granted bail to the tune of GHC70,000 each.

  • Arda Turk seeks court injunction against GRA over alleged illegal auction

    Arda Turk seeks court injunction against GRA over alleged illegal auction

    Arda Turk Ghana Limited has initiated legal action at the Accra High Court, requesting an interlocutory injunction to block the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) from proceeding with what the company describes as an unlawful auction of its assets.

    The dispute centers on unpaid duties totaling over GH¢4 million (GH¢4,084,038.33), for which Arda Turk says it had previously agreed to a payment plan with the GRA. However, the company alleges that the GRA has since disregarded the agreement and is planning to auction the assets to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).

    In the suit, Arda Turk argued that under the Customs Act, the GRA does not have the authority to allocate uncleared goods to any beneficiary.

    Additionally, the company contends that the GRA lacks the legal right to handle its assets in a way that conflicts with the company’s interests, particularly when efforts are being made to settle the outstanding duties and taxes through officially approved channels.

    The company accused the GRA of acting in bad faith and warned that, without court intervention, the GRA’s actions would cause irreparable harm to its business.

    Arda Turk is asking the court to stop the GRA, its agents, and officers from dealing with its assets in a manner that violates the company’s rights and ownership until the case is resolved.

    Facts of the case

    In a lawsuit filed on September 10, 2024, Arda Turk Ghana Limited detailed that it had secured a contract from the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) for a water expansion project.

    To fulfill the contract, its parent company, Arda Muthendislik, imported vehicles, machinery, and equipment. The Ministry of Finance granted permission to clear these items under a permit, pending parliamentary approval for exemption from Customs duties and taxes.

    Upon project completion, GWCL handed the assets back to Arda Muthendislik. Following this, Arda Muthendislik established Arda Turk Ghana Limited and sought a customs duties and taxes assessment from the GRA for the assets.

    However, before the company could settle the duties, its local consultant, Jooes Company Limited, sued. In 2019, the court issued an injunction preventing Arda Turk from relocating or disposing of the assets until the case was resolved.

    Disputed payment process

    In 2021, the GRA calculated the duties and taxes owed by Arda Turk, but the company explained that it was unable to make payments due to the existing injunction. After the court lifted the restriction on the assets, Arda Turk notified the GRA, which then issued a final assessment in 2023, totaling over GH¢4 million (GH¢4,084,038.33).

    In November 2023, Arda Turk applied for installment payments, a request that the GRA accepted, provided the company could secure a bank guarantee. Unable to obtain the guarantee, Arda Turk offered an insurance bond as an alternative, which the GRA agreed to.

    On March 15, 2024, after paying the required premium, the company submitted the insurance bond, and following a review by the GRA’s Risk Management Unit, approval was recommended.

    Although the Commissioner-General initially approved the arrangement, the GRA later stated that the agreement hadn’t been reviewed by its legal department. After additional checks, the legal team gave its clearance, and the Commissioner-General reaffirmed approval in August 2024.

    Auction threat

    Despite the approvals, Arda Turk claims the GRA has failed to print the tax bill to facilitate payment. Without any reasonable and tangible explanation the agreement had been terminated, the company alleges that in late August 2024, the Head of the Auction Unit at GRA, Eric Afari, informed them that the agreement had been discontinued and that GRA had seized their assets.

    On September 3 and 4, 2024, Mr. Afari of GRA reportedly led a team of customs officials to take stock of the assets, with plans to allocate them to the Defence Industries Holding Company (DIHOC), a subsidiary of the Ghana Armed Forces.

    Allegations of influence

    Arda Turk has accused DIHOC of leveraging its position as a state entity to pressure the GRA into confiscating its assets and transferring them to DIHOC.

    The company alleges that in 2023, Brigadier General Benjamin Amoah-Boakye, head of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) Legal Unit, approached them with a business partnership proposal. After extensive negotiations, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Arda Turk and DIHOC.

    However, Arda Turk contends that DIHOC’s influence over the GRA was an attempt to acquire the assets at no cost. As a result, the company decided to terminate the MoU.

    Subsequently, the Ghana Army allegedly escalated its efforts to take over Arda Turk’s assets using state machinery and the GRA. These actions have led to the lawsuit and the request for an interlocutory injunction against the GRA.

  • 9 Democracy Hub protestors to be arraigned Oct. 11

    9 Democracy Hub protestors to be arraigned Oct. 11

    Thirty-nine Democracy Hub protestors who were arrested for engaging in various acts of lawlessness at the 37 Intersection in Accra on September 22nd and 23rd, were brought before the court on September 24th, 2024.

    The arrests stem from protests organized by the Democracy Hub, which drew significant public attention due to the disturbances caused in the area.

    The court has remanded 28 of the accused persons into Police custody, while 11 others were remanded into Prison custody. The legal proceedings are being spearheaded by the Office of the Attorney-General.

    Out of the total, 30 of the accused are set to reappear before the court on October 8, 2024, while the remaining 9 protestors are scheduled to be arraigned on October 11, 2024.

    Authorities have indicated that the remaining suspects involved in the protests will be brought before the court to face justice. The crackdown on the protestors has sparked mixed reactions, with some calling for stricter enforcement of the law, while others argue for the protection of the right to peaceful assembly.

    The protests by the Democracy Hub aimed to highlight concerns over the activities of illegal miners laying waste to the country’s environment, but the incidents of lawlessness that ensued have now led to multiple legal actions against the participants.

  • “These people are ridiculous” – Ama Governor yells while being sent to court

    “These people are ridiculous” – Ama Governor yells while being sent to court

    Ama Governor, a lawyer and social media influencer, voiced her outrage after being detained for over 48 hours without food or water following her arrest during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration over the weekend.

    Ama Governor was among several protesters who were transported to court today under heavy security. The group, numbering over 12, was arrested during the three-day protest at the 37 Roundabout, where demonstrators raised concerns about illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) and the country’s economic mismanagement.

    As she was escorted to the courtroom, Ama Governor shouted, “You want to see a 26-year-old lawyer in handcuffs because she said Stop Galamsey Now. 48 hours no lawyer, 48 hours no food, no water. Over 48 hours, you all should be proud. These people are ridiculous. Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery.”

    The protest, organized to call attention to Ghana’s pressing social, environmental, and economic issues, resulted in the arrests of multiple participants. Ama Governor, a vocal participant, has highlighted the harsh treatment she endured during her detention.

    Speaking to the media after her arrest, Ama Governor revealed she was standing on the pavement near the 37 lorry station when she was apprehended by the police. She also alleged that she was physically assaulted during the arrest.

    “I don’t know why I have been picked up… they hit my neck,” she told the media.

    The arrest and treatment of the lawyer-turned-influencer has sparked discussions on social media, with many raising concerns about police handling of peaceful protesters.

    The #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration, named after a slang reference to the presidency, continues to gain attention as a platform for Ghanaians frustrated with the government’s handling of critical issues. So far, 39 of the arrested protestors who were arraigned yesterday have been remanded for two weeks.

  • Democracy Hub protestors accused of lawlessness arraigned today

    Democracy Hub protestors accused of lawlessness arraigned today

    Several protestors arrested during the #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration over the weekend appeared in court today under heavy security presence in a bus.

    The arrests occurred during the three-day protest at the 37 Roundabout, where demonstrators expressed their grievances over issues such as illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) and economic mismanagement.

    The Ghana Police Service on Sunday, 22nd September 2024, arrested 42 individuals among the Democracy Hub demonstrators for engaging in various acts of lawlessness at the 37 Intersection in Accra.

    Among those arrested was lawyer and social media influencer Ama Governor. As she was being escorted to the courtroom, she could be heard saying, “You want to see a 26-year-old lawyer in handcuffs because she said Stop Galamsey Now. 48 hours no lawyer, 48 hours no food, no water. Over 48 hours, you all should be proud. These people are ridiculous. Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery.”

    In court, the demonstrators were charged with conspiracy to commit a crime, specifically unlawful assembly. Lawyers for the protestors have stated that they were not informed of the specific reasons for their arrests.

    Earlier, the legal team representing the protestors expressed their frustration, revealing that they were still struggling to locate all 46 individuals who had been detained.

    Prince Ganaku, a member of the Protest Defense, mentioned that they are still seeking information regarding the whereabouts of all the protestors. He suggested that the police may be attempting to prolong the detention of those arrested.

    Mr. Ganaku further explained that the lawyers had requested information from the police regarding the court where the Democracy Hub detainees would be arraigned to allow them to prepare a defense. However, the police failed to provide any information.

  • Imam held in custody for alleged threats to murder his wife

    Imam held in custody for alleged threats to murder his wife

    A Circuit Court in Accra has ordered the detention of a self-identified religious figure after he was accused of threatening his wife’s life.

    Imam Mohammed Lanson Abubakar, aged 44, who also goes by the name Andre, pleaded not guilty to the charges but was held in custody as he had previously skipped a police bail.

    Chief Inspector Jonas Lawer informed the court, overseen by Mr. Isaac Addo, that Abubakar’s failure to comply with an earlier bail had hindered the investigation and raised concerns about his likelihood of appearing for trial if granted bail.

    The court questioned his absence on March 27, 2024, when a bench warrant was issued for his arrest due to his non-appearance.

    Abubakar was remanded to aid in the ongoing investigation and is scheduled to return to court on September 2, 2024.

    According to Chief Inspector Lawer, the complainant, Maimuna Sarki Abubakar, is a Nigerian social worker living in the UK. Abubakar, who is a self-styled Imam and businessman from Kumasi, was previously married to Maimuna.

    The two met through social media, where Abubakar presented himself as an Imam and convinced Maimuna to marry him.

    Following their marriage, Maimuna purchased a plot of land in East Trassaco and constructed a house, which she furnished before returning to the UK. She would stay at the property when visiting Ghana.

    In 2020, Abubakar persuaded Maimuna to buy and ship two vehicles—a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado and a 2019 Infinity CPX—to Ghana.

    He claimed he would sell the vehicles and use the proceeds to purchase a parcel of land in Adjiringanor for her. Instead, Abubakar used the funds to acquire four plots of land in Adjiringanor.

    Later, the marriage deteriorated, and Abubakar threatened her during one of their disagreements, stating, “I have scammed you; I am taking over your building and all your property here in Ghana including your daughter.

    If you dare get closer to this property again, I will kill you.”

    In a bid for bail, Abubakar’s attorney argued that her client had not violated his bail conditions, asserting that he had traveled and did not make any threats against Maimuna.

    The court was informed that the couple is in the process of divorce proceedings at the Adentan Court.

    The lawyer emphasized that Abubakar is a responsible individual with a stable residence and assured the court of his commitment to attending the trial.

  • Court commends BoG rejecting Smith-Graham’s appointment as UMB Board Chair

    Court commends BoG rejecting Smith-Graham’s appointment as UMB Board Chair

    The High Court, under Justice Nana Brew, rejected a judicial review application filed by George Smith-Graham, a former director of UMB Bank, against the Bank of Ghana (BoG).

    This ruling was issued on July 10, 2024.

    In delivering the judgment in favor of the BoG, the Court noted that the aim of the Banks and Specialized Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, Act 930, and the Corporate Governance Directive 2018, is to strengthen the Bank’s supervisory powers to maintain order in the banking sector.

    The Court highlighted that it considered Section 102 of Act 930 and concluded that this section grants the BoG broad authority to address any violations of its laws and regulations by banks and specialized deposit-taking institutions, allowing the BoG to act upon receiving information about such breaches.

    The Court held that the Applicant’s argument that the BoG could not remove a bank director who had violated its laws without first granting a hearing was untenable. The Court further explained that Section 102 (3) of Act 930 includes the removal of a director as a permissible remedial action by the BoG.

    Additionally, the Court found that correspondence between the parties indicated that the BoG had provided the Applicant and UMB with an opportunity to be heard. The Court believed that the Applicant, who served as both a director and Chairperson of UMB, could not claim ignorance of the communications exchanged between the parties.

    Finally, the Court ruled that the Companies Act, 2019 (Act 992), does not limit the extensive powers granted to the BoG under Act 930 to address breaches of its directives. The Court emphasized that Act 930, which specifically governs the conduct of banks, overrides the general provisions of Act 992 concerning the removal of directors by the BoG.

    Therefore, the Court dismissed the application, deeming it unmeritorious, and found that the Applicant had failed to demonstrate that the BoG’s power was exercised corruptly, with malicious intent, or in an irrational, capricious, and unreasonable manner.

    Background

    On 22nd July 2022, the BoG, pursuant to its powers, under the Banks and Specialised Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, Act 930 and the Corporate Governance Directive 2018, issued a directive on the appointment and redesignation of directors and key management personnel. This required all commercial banks [including Universal Merchant Bank Ltd (UMB)] to obtain a prior written “No Objection” from BoG before redesignating an existing non-executive director to any other position.

    UMB on 5th July 2023 purported to appoint Mr. Smith-Graham (a non-executive director) as its board chair at an emergency meeting of its Board. UMB did not comply with the BoG’s Directive of July 2022 by failing to obtain BoG’s prior written “No Objection” to the purported appointment.

    The BoG informed UMB about its violation of the Directive and instructed UMB to seek the BoG’s “No Objection” for appointing Mr. Smith-Graham as its Board Chair. UMB responded by stating that their lawyers advised them that they did not need BoG’s “No Objection” to appoint Mr. Smith-Graham as Board Chair, so they would not seek such approval. Due to UMB’s refusal, the BoG used its powers under the Banks and Specialized Deposit-Taking Institutions Act, 2016 (Act 930), to revoke its approval of Mr. Smith-Graham’s appointment as UMB’s director.

    Unhappy with the BoG’s decision, Mr. Smith-Graham (Applicant) filed an application for judicial review of the revocation of his appointment as a director. The Applicant argued that the BoG’s power under Section 102 of Act 930 did not include the authority to revoke his appointment as a director of UMB Bank. He further claimed that even if the BoG had the authority to revoke his appointment, it was legally required to give him a hearing. The BoG, however, asserted that it had the power to revoke the Applicant’s appointment under Section 102 of Act 930.

    The Court had to determine whether the BoG could revoke the Applicant’s appointment under Section 102 of Act 930 based on information obtained through its own investigations.

  • Injunction application against KNUST VC’s reappointment dismissed

    Injunction application against KNUST VC’s reappointment dismissed

    A Kumasi High Court has rejected an application for an interlocutory injunction intended to block the tenure extension of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Mrs. Rita Akosua Dickson. The second term of Prof. Dickson is set to begin on August 1, 2024.

    Clement Kofi Ohene Asare, who filed the application, sought to prevent Prof. Dickson’s reappointment. However, Justice Frederick Tetteh dismissed the application, stating it lacked merit and questioning Asare’s claim of being an alumnus of the university. Asare failed to provide convincing evidence of his status as a former student.

    During court proceedings, the plaintiff’s counsel argued that the reappointment process was “procedurally wrong” according to university statutes. The counsel highlighted that the proper procedure involves a seven-member Search Committee to identify candidates and an open advertisement for the Vice Chancellor position, which were allegedly not followed.

    The defense counsel, representing the university and the Vice Chancellor, countered these claims, asserting that the reappointment process adhered to the university’s statutes.

    Following the court’s dismissal of the injunction application, the plaintiff filed a stay of execution and an appeal against the decision. A confrontation occurred at the court premises when the bailiff attempted to serve the university’s lawyers, who insisted on being served officially at the university.

    The court ordered the plaintiff to pay a cost of 9,000 Ghana cedis. Dr. Noris Bekoe, the University Relations Officer, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision and encouraged resolving disputes amicably without resorting to legal actions.

    In the meantime, another university staff member has filed a similar suit seeking to block the Vice Chancellor’s reappointment.

  • Court throws out petition against Peter Amewu, affirms his position as Hohoe MP

    Ho High Court has rejected a petition challenging the election of John Peter Amewu as the Member of Parliament for Hohoe, citing issues of jurisdiction.

    The challenge stemmed from complaints by around 17,000 voters from the Santrofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi (SALL) enclave, which comprises 13 communities.

    These voters did not participate in the 2020 parliamentary elections due to the creation of the Oti Region from the Volta Region, leaving them unrepresented in the 8th Parliament.

    Five residents from the SALL area brought the case to the High Court in Ho, seeking to overturn the election of John Peter Amewu, arguing that their exclusion from the election was unfair.

    During the case, Amewu raised three new issues, which the National Democratic Congress (NDC) criticized as tactics to delay proceedings, as these issues were introduced late in the process.

    On July 29, 2024, the court ruled that the petition effectively challenged the constitutionality of CI 128, the legal framework used by the Electoral Commission for the 2020 elections.

    Consequently, the court dismissed the petition, allowing John Peter Amewu to continue serving as the MP for Hohoe. The concerns of the SALL residents regarding their representation remain unaddressed for now.

  • Jakpa wasn’t released from military due to misconduct – CDS tells court

    Jakpa wasn’t released from military due to misconduct – CDS tells court

    The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) has refuted allegations that former soldier Richard Jakpa was discharged due to misconduct.

    These denials come in the wake of a circulated letter from the Military High Command, which purportedly claimed that Mr. Jakpa, now the third accused in an ongoing legal case, was removed from service because of repeated offenses and inappropriate behavior.

    Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ambulance case

    The issue came to light during proceedings at an Accra High Court, where Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Thomas Oppong-Peprah, testified following Mr. Jakpa’s subpoena.

    The defense attorneys for the third accused inquired whether Jakpa’s release from the GAF was based on misconduct.

    Lieutenant General Oppong-Peprah firmly denied that misconduct played a role in Jakpa’s dismissal.

    Despite this, the Attorney General presented a letter as evidence during the trial, which explicitly cited misconduct as a factor in Mr. Jakpa’s discharge from the military.

  • Petition contesting Peter Amewu’s election as Hohoe MP thrown out of court

    Petition contesting Peter Amewu’s election as Hohoe MP thrown out of court

    The High Court in Ho has dismissed a petition questioning the legitimacy of John Peter Amewu’s election as Member of Parliament for Hohoe, citing a lack of jurisdiction.

    The petition, brought by five residents from the Santrofi, Akpafu, Likpe, and Lolobi (SALL) enclave—an area comprising 13 communities—argued that about 17,000 voters from this region were disenfranchised in the 2020 parliamentary elections due to the redrawing of boundaries when the Oti Region was created from the Volta Region.

    These residents claimed that the exclusion of their votes left them unrepresented in the 8th Parliament and sought to nullify Amewu’s election.

    At the final hearing, Amewu introduced three new issues to the case, which the opposition NDC claimed was an attempt to delay proceedings.

    However, the court ruled on Monday, July 29, 2024, that the petitioners’ request effectively challenged the constitutionality of CI 128, the electoral instrument used by the EC for the 2020 parliamentary elections.

  • Nana Agradaa granted GHC200k bail for indecent exposure of a pastor on TV

    Nana Agradaa granted GHC200k bail for indecent exposure of a pastor on TV

    On Thursday, July 18, evangelist Patricia Asiedua, widely known as Nana Agradaa, appeared in court and was granted bail set at GH¢200,000.

    This bail includes the condition of providing two justified sureties.

    The charges against Nana Agradaa relate to a 2021 incident where she allegedly aired explicit images of a prophet on her television station, Thunder TV, now rebranded as Today’s TV.

    Additionally, she was accused of making derogatory comments about the images and distributing them by labeling them on a beverage called bitters, which she was selling.

  • Marwako Fast Food to appeal court’s GHC1M damages ruling

    Marwako Fast Food to appeal court’s GHC1M damages ruling

    Marwako Fast Food’s management has rejected a court order to pay over GH₵1 million in damages for the 2022 food poisoning incident that affected several customers.

    This sum is part of the relief awarded to three plaintiffs, who are siblings and victims of the June 2022 incident, each receiving GH₵345,000 in general damages.

    Victims of the incident have shared their traumatic experiences, with one recalling their reluctance to eat salads again due to the fear of enduring a similar ordeal.

    “I don’t even eat these salads again because I am scared of going through the predicament again,” one victim recounted in an interview with JoyNews.

    Despite the court’s ruling, Marwako Fast Food’s spokesperson, Mohammed Amin Lamptey, announced the company’s decision to appeal.

    “Marwako Fast Food Limited vehemently disagrees with the judgment. There is no factual or legal basis for the judgment and we’re still working around the clock, our lawyer and his team are scrutinizing it and by Monday we should file to appeal whatever happened at the court,” Lamptey stated.

    The food poisoning incident in question occurred in May 2022 and gained widespread attention on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) after user Edward Elohim posted about his illness following a meal at Marwako’s East Legon branch.

    The post prompted numerous other complaints from customers who experienced similar issues.

    Following an investigation by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Marwako Fast Food was found guilty of food poisoning. Consequently, the East Legon branch was shut down, and the FDA provided corrective prevention actions (CAPA) for the company to implement.

  • Ghanaian judges run to court as private developers demolish their homes

    Ghanaian judges run to court as private developers demolish their homes

    Member of Parliament (MP) for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has made further revelations after indicating that Ghanaian courts are currently embroiled in legal disputes over land that they possess.

    In an interview on TV3’s The KeyPoints show, he made new information available, which reveals that 13 bungalows belonging to judges located opposite the American Embassy are no longer in sight.

    “When the private developers told them that they are the new owners started demolishing, judges run to their fellow judges for an injunction. Hey, we have nowhere else to stay, save us. I have the court documents here,” he said.

    The case is Judicial Service of Ghana (plaintiff) against Lands Commission, Frames Oil Company Limited and Attorney General.

    “Unprecedented. Judges running to judges to save them,” he exclaimed in a sentiment expressing disbelief.

    In an interview on Metro TV, the indicated that the Minister of Local Government and Decentralisation, Martin Kwaku Adjei-Mensah Korsah has become helpless due to government’s actions.

    “So when we talk about the state capture, judges have to run to their colleague judges to save them. You wonder what is happening is there no adult in the room. Look at the Local Minister, he is helpless, he wants to protect the land. Look at this Cantoments land, government took one out of two containers. The local has to run to goverment. Now the court is in court with the government. What is going on in this country?,” he added.

    In recent weeks, the MP has leveled accusations against government officials, alleging state capture.

    Ablakwa specifically cited additional instances of government selling state properties, purportedly including assets belonging to the Ghana Prisons Service and the Department of Parks and Gardens.

    Meanwhile, the MP has affirmed his unwavering commitment to combating state capture and government corruption, asserting that no amount of intimidation would deter him.

  • Widow in court for alleged fraud involving GHC3,130,800

    Widow in court for alleged fraud involving GHC3,130,800

    A trader, Deborah Adjei, allegedly received GHC3,130,800 from a contractor under the guise of securing the release of a fleet of cars seized by the Police, and has now appeared in court.

    The fleet of vehicles originally belonged to Deborah’s deceased husband.

    She purportedly took the money to “settle” the Police who had seized her late husband’s cars in a fraud case handled by the Property Fraud Unit of the Ghana Police Service.

    According to police reports presented in court, Deborah was supposed to reimburse the complainant for recovering the fleet of vehicles from the police.

    Deborah appeared before the Accra Circuit Court and pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and defrauding by false pretenses.

    Her associates named in the case include Winston Gary Jones, one Philip who is currently evading arrest, and Mujeed Mohammed, who has passed away.

    Presiding over the case, Judge Samuel Bright Acquah granted Deborah bail amounting to GH¢ 3,500,000 with three sureties, one of whom must provide justification.

    The court also instructed her to report to the police every Wednesday.

    The trial has been adjourned until July 15, 2024.

    In 2021, Mujeed Mohammed, the deceased cousin of the complainant, introduced Deborah to the complainant as an acquaintance needing assistance to resolve a fraud investigation with the police and retrieve her late husband’s assets seized by the Property Fraud Unit at Police Headquarters.

    According to the prosecution, Deborah confirmed that the police had seized her husband’s fleet of cars.

    The court was informed that the complainant agreed to assist under the condition that any funds provided would be repaid once the cars were returned to Deborah.

    The prosecution detailed that the complainant then tasked Mujeed Mohammed, his deceased cousin, to meet with the police officer overseeing the case to verify the legitimacy of Deborah’s claims.

    Several months later, the complainant handed over GH¢ 1,600,000 to Deborah to settle the alleged fraud case pending at the Police Station.

    Prosecutor Inspector Drinda Otumfour, representing the complainant Mallam Issah Ishak, a building contractor residing in Spintex, presented the case.

    The prosecution disclosed that Deborah Adjei, also known as Deborah Gary Jones, conducts business as a trader based in Koforidua.

    The prosecutor said, “Nothing was heard from the accused person (Deborah) again until the latter part of the year 2022, after the death of the complainant’s cousin, Mujeed Mohammed.”

    He mentioned that following Mujeed Mohammed’s death, she contacted the complainant, alleging that Mohammed owed her money which remained unpaid until his demise.

    Accordingly, the prosecution indicated that Deborah visited the complainant at his workplace and unexpectedly informed him that she still needed funds to settle with the police.

    The prosecution revealed that the complainant provided Deborah with a sum totaling GH¢ 1,230,000.

    The court was informed that in May 2024, Deborah visited the complainant at his office and informed him that she had resolved the matter with the police, awaiting only the release of the car fleet.

    Deborah also presented an unsigned letter purporting to be a withdrawal notice instructing the police to drop the case.

    Several weeks later, the prosecution stated that Deborah appeared at the complainant’s office and demanded GH¢ 308,000 for payment to the police for ground rent and vehicle safekeeping before their release to her.

    On June 25, 2024, around 1:00 pm, Deborah contacted the complainant to collect GH¢ 300,800, the remaining balance for payment to the police.

    The prosecution detailed that Deborah was escorted to the Consolidated Bank of Ghana, where GH¢ 300,800 was withdrawn and handed over to her.

    When the complainant requested a meeting with the police officer at Police Headquarters, Deborah took him to the Fitness Centre, but she failed to identify the officer who allegedly requested the funds.

    The prosecution noted that the complainant grew suspicious of Deborah’s actions and reported the incident to the police.

    The court learned that Deborah could not lead the complainant to the location of the car fleet, nor to the specific unit or office handling the case.

  • More Ghanaians losing trust in Courts, Police, EC – Afrobarometer Reports

    More Ghanaians losing trust in Courts, Police, EC – Afrobarometer Reports

    The latest Afrobarometer survey has unveiled a stark decline in public trust in Ghana’s Electoral Commission (EC), courts, and police, painting a troubling picture for these pivotal institutions.

    The data, spanning from 1999 to 2022, reveals a dramatic erosion of confidence that poses significant concerns for the country’s democratic process and rule of law.

    Once a beacon of trust, the Electoral Commission has witnessed a precipitous drop in public confidence. In 1999, the EC enjoyed a commendable trust rating of 63%.

    This figure surged to an impressive 75% in 2005. However, the latest data from 2022 shows that only 33% of Ghanaians now have faith in the EC. This sharp decline reflects growing public skepticism about the commission’s ability to conduct free and fair elections.

    The courts have not been immune to this trend. In 1999, 58% of respondents expressed confidence in the judiciary, and this number rose slightly to 62% by 2005. Yet, by 2022, trust in the judicial system had plummeted to a mere 36%. This significant decline indicates a deepening distrust in the courts’ ability to deliver justice impartially and effectively.

    The police force, often the most visible arm of law enforcement, has also experienced a severe drop in public trust. In 1999, trust in the police stood at 49%, climbing to 64% in 2005.

    However, by 2022, only 28% of Ghanaians expressed confidence in the police. This decline persists despite the efforts of IGP George Akufo Dampare to enhance the police’s image and effectiveness.

    Historical Trust Levels

    • Electoral Commission (EC)
    • 1999: 63%
    • 2005: 75%
    • 2022: 33%

    The Courts

    • 1999: 58%
    • 2005: 62%
    • 2022: 36%

    The Police

    • 1999: 49%
    • 2005: 64%
    • 2022: 28%

    The Afrobarometer data underscores an urgent need for reforms across these institutions. Restoring public trust will require significant efforts to increase transparency, accountability, and performance.

    For the EC, ensuring transparent electoral processes and addressing public concerns head-on will be crucial. The judiciary must work towards greater impartiality and efficiency, while the police need to rebuild their relationship with the public through consistent and fair law enforcement.

  • Landguards attack court officer, farmers in Greater Accra Region

    Landguards attack court officer, farmers in Greater Accra Region

    Landguards have attacked a bailiff from the Accra High Court at Agbazo in the Ga South Municipality of the Greater Accra region.

    The bailiff was present in the area due to an injunction application filed by farmers whose 750-acre farmland was destroyed for sand mining.

    The farmers reported that the incident occurred in the presence of Police officers who did not make any arrests.

    Out of the 750 acres, over 600 acres of maize, sweet potatoes, and watermelon belong to the 2021 Greater Accra Regional Best Farmer, Osmanu Kadri.

    This situation threatens the livelihoods of hundreds of farmers in the community.

    In an interview, Mr. Kadri stated that landguards have been chasing them off their farms with weapons.

    He mentioned that numerous reports have been filed with the Amanfrom District Police Command, Weija Divisional, and Greater Accra Regional Police but to no avail.

    Osmanu Kadri has therefore appealed to the IGP and President Akufo-Addo for assistance, as the landguards are destroying crops under the Planting for Food and Jobs policy.

    Some affected farmers working with Golden Exotic Company also stated that the landguards have been brutalizing and tormenting them on their own farms.

    They called on authorities to intervene on their behalf.

  • ‘Angry’ Jakpa slams ‘goro boys’ begging him for money outside of court

    ‘Angry’ Jakpa slams ‘goro boys’ begging him for money outside of court

    Richard Jakpa, the third accused person in the ongoing ambulance purchase trial, faced an unexpected confrontation outside the Accra High Court as he dealt with a group of individuals demanding money from him.

    The incident occurred after Jakpa spent two days testifying in court.

    In a video shared by GHOne TV, Jakpa is seen in the parking lot of the court complex trying to move his Toyota Landcruiser while being accosted by the group of individuals, known locally as ‘goro boys,’ who were demanding money from him.

    In the video, Jakpa is heard pleading for clemency, stating that he is “fighting for his liberty” and that the legal battle is expensive. He expresses frustration at the group’s insistence on asking for money from him, despite his circumstances.

    “I am fighting for my liberty, you people too want to make money from me again, habba,” Jakpa is heard saying in the video as one of the individuals presses for monetary assistance.

    Despite his pleas, the group continues to demand money from Jakpa, who is visibly frustrated by the situation. He is later joined in his car by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, an aide to former President John Dramani Mahama, as they drive out of the court premises.

    Jakpa is standing trial alongside former Deputy Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, in the purchase of ambulances. Both men have pleaded not guilty to charges of willfully causing financial loss to the state in excess of over 2.7 million euros.

    Watch the video of Jakpa confronting ‘goro boys’ outside court

  • Admission of Jakpa’s 68 WhatsApp messages to Dame to be ruled by court today

    Admission of Jakpa’s 68 WhatsApp messages to Dame to be ruled by court today

    The Accra High Court is set to decide on the potential admission of 68 WhatsApp messages sent by Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ongoing ambulance procurement trial, to Attorney-General Godfred Dame, along with two responses from the AG.

    During the proceedings on Tuesday, June 18, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa, emphasized the significant volume of messages sent by Mr. Jakpa compared to the Attorney-General’s limited responses. The DPP aimed to introduce all the WhatsApp messages sent by Mr. Jakpa into evidence.

    Mr. Jakpa acknowledged that he had introduced himself to the Attorney-General before the trial and had obtained the Justice Minister’s contact information through his cousin, Supreme Court Judge Justice Yonny Kulendi.

    Under cross-examination, Mr. Jakpa admitted that the messages presented in court did not include the entire conversation but were selected based on their relevance to his case.

    The DPP’s attempt to submit the WhatsApp conversation as evidence faced objections from Mr. Sory, counsel for Mr. Jakpa, who argued that the defence required additional time to thoroughly review the messages.

    Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, presiding over the case, then sought input from Dr. Bamba, counsel for the first accused, regarding objections to the submission.

    Dr. Bamba objected to the document’s submission, citing the lack of color printing in the document, which also surprised the judge since the printout provided by Mr. Jakpa similarly lacked color.

    Following these objections, the court instructed the DPP to defer the submission of the messages until the defence had sufficient time to examine them. This review was scheduled for today’s session.

    The trial, which revolves around the procurement of ambulances, has attracted significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the accused and the substantial implications for the country’s healthcare system.

    The outcome of today’s session is eagerly anticipated as it will determine whether the WhatsApp messages will be admitted as evidence, potentially impacting the direction of the trial.

    The court’s decision will be pivotal in establishing the relevance and admissibility of digital communications in legal proceedings.

  • Payment vouchers used during transition of Beige Capital into a universal bank tendered in court

    Payment vouchers used during transition of Beige Capital into a universal bank tendered in court

    Obed Gyasi Appiah-Kubi, the former Project Supervisor of The Beige Group, has submitted payment vouchers as evidence of expenses related to the transition of Beige Capital Savings and Loans (BCSL) into a universal bank.

    These vouchers serve to validate the projects he claims were carried out during that period.

    “I have provided and attached to my current statement a sample of payment vouchers serving as evidence of disbursements made for the refurbishment work done on the offices of BCSL, which existed before its transition into universal banking,” the 9th defence witness told the Court.

    The former Project Supervisor also informed the court about the bank’s extensive branch expansion projects before its transition into a universal bank.

    He stated that these projects included refurbishing all existing branches to align with the institution’s upgraded status and constructing entirely new offices.

    “As part of the preparations for the transition of BCSL into universal banking, the bank undertook many branch expansion projects across the country.

    “It was also his assertion that Beige Capital Savings & Loans carried out numerous branch expansion projects as part of its transition to becoming The BEIGE Bank,” he stated.

    He informed the court that these projects included refurbishing all existing branches to reflect the institution’s upgraded status and constructing entirely new offices.

    “I know that Beige Capital Savings & Loans carried out numerous branch expansion projects as part of its transition to becoming The BEIGE Bank,” he told Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe on Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

    The witness also mentioned, “The project involved refurbishing existing BCSL branches before BCSL obtained the universal banking license.”

    Additionally, he noted that “new offices were constructed for use by BCSL, which had transitioned into TBB.”

    “I can confirm that these projects were completed through collaboration between several TBG departments and the bank itself.

    “I was part of the projects department at TBG, responsible for preparing the offices for occupation before any interior and exterior setup work could begin.

    “I can confirm that funding for the activities undertaken by my department came from the finance office of TBG,” Mr. Appiah-Kubi told the Court.

    He also confirmed to the Court that “the payment vouchers attached to my current statement represent a sample of many such payment vouchers evidencing payments made for several projects supervised by my department concerning existing branches of BCSL that had to be refurbished to meet the standards expected for universal banking operations.”

    The Witness further asserted that “the expenditure report submitted by my department, along with its related attachments, indeed accounted for the expenditures of funds received from TBG to be utilized in executing my department’s scope of work within the projects executed on behalf of the bank.”

    He testified again that, at the time the bank was placed under receivership, “there were still many projects ongoing for the bank at various locations throughout the country.”

    Mr. Nyinaku, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of the collapsed bank, faces charges of allegedly embezzling GH¢2.1 billion of depositors’ funds.

    He has pleaded not guilty to 43 charges, including stealing, fraudulent breach of trust, and money laundering, and has been granted bail.

  • Repairing damaged Tema-Mpakadan train will cost US$2.1m – Prosecution tells Court

    Repairing damaged Tema-Mpakadan train will cost US$2.1m – Prosecution tells Court

    The prosecution in the Tema-Mpakadan train accident case has informed the court that repairing the train would exceed $2 million.

    As per the prosecution, the manufacturers of the train assessed the damage, which was valued at $2,138,466.86.

    Additionally, four more individuals were arraigned at the High Court in Accra and remanded for aiding in the unlawful damage related to the train accident at Tema-Mpakadan.

    The four individuals—Kokuo Koudjo, a gas welder, Patrick Kwaku Sosu, Alaza Prosper, and Fiadugbe Emmanuel, a laborer—were charged with abetting the accident.

    The Prosecution said that on the same day, the Ghana Railways Company management, along with the complainant and 28 engineers from Ghana and Poland, conducted a test run of the new DMU 001 train from Tema to Mpakadan.

    She mentioned that the test run had been announced in advance, and when the train reached the Abotia area, it collided with a Hyundai Gold truck that was stuck on the railway tracks.

    Both the train and the truck were damaged.

    “The train was sent to Tema for examination, while the scrap of the vehicle, which was damaged beyond repairs was taken to the Juapong police station for further action,” she stated.

    Convict

    She informed the Court that on April 19, 2024, the driver, Dzidotor Abel, was arrested and brought before the Circuit Court in Juapong, overseen by His Honour Proper Deu-love Gomashie. Abel pleaded guilty to three out of four charges.

    He was then convicted and sentenced to six months in prison.

    According to the 2023 World Drug Report, around 296 million individuals used drugs at least once in 2021, with about 39.5 million of them experiencing substance use disorders (SUDs), and only 15 individuals with SUDs receiving any form of treatment.

    The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) estimated that approximately 3.1 million people were detained worldwide in 2020 for drug-related offenses, with 61 percent of these arrests being for drug possession for personal use.

  • 500,000 businesses to be delisted for non-compliance – Registrar of Companies

    500,000 businesses to be delisted for non-compliance – Registrar of Companies

    The Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) plans to delist over 500,000 public and private businesses by the end of June 2024 due to non-compliance with filing requirements.

    This delisting will affect more than 8,000 companies limited by shares and over 500,000 business names that have failed to file their annual returns, necessary to maintain good standing.

    Despite receiving numerous notices and reminders through various awareness programs and publications over the past two years, these businesses have not complied.

    Initially, the ORC set a deadline for the end of 2023, but it was extended to provide additional time for public education and compliance.

    According to a press release by the Registrar of Companies, Jemima Mamaa Oware, in Accra on June 3, 2024, companies struck off the register will be prohibited from conducting business under their company name for twelve years, as stipulated by Section 289 (5) of the Companies Act 2019 (Act 992).

    Business names will lose their exclusive rights and become part of the public domain upon deregistration, in line with Section 59(A) of the Registration of Business Names 1962 (Act 151).

    The release also noted that a company’s name can only be restored to the register following a court order, provided there is sufficient cause for such action, as outlined in Section 289 (7) of the Companies Act 992.

    The ORC has stressed the importance of filing annual returns to ensure compliance and transparency within the business community. Failure to comply jeopardizes the legal standing of entities and undermines public trust.

    Defaulting companies and businesses are urged to file their Annual Returns and Renewals as directed by the Registrar of Companies before the validation process concludes on June 30, 2024.

    The ORC encourages all stakeholders to comply in order to maintain the integrity of the business environment and foster trust among investors, consumers, and the public.

    Defaulting companies should visit the ORC’s website to check the list of entities slated for removal from the register.

  • Ato Forson appeals to Chief Justice for live streaming of court hearings in Ambulance case trial

    Ato Forson appeals to Chief Justice for live streaming of court hearings in Ambulance case trial

    Minority Leader and main defendant in the ongoing ambulance trial, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has directed his legal team to formally request the Chief Justice to broadcast the remaining trial sessions.

    This request, communicated in a letter from his attorneys to the Chief Justice on May 30, is motivated by recent accusations of impropriety leveled against Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame.

    Richard Jakpa made a claim last week suggesting that the Attorney-General had urged him to give false testimony against Dr. Ato Forson during the trial.

    In support of Jakpa’s accusations, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) released a 16-minute recording purportedly capturing a conversation between Dame and Jakpa.

    The recording allegedly depicts Dame advising Jakpa on what statements to present in court to implicate Dr. Ato Forson.

    During a press conference on May 28, NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketiah stated that the recording revealed a coaching session aimed at influencing Jakpa’s testimony.

    Given these developments, Dr. Ato Forson argued that live broadcasting of the trial would ensure transparency and uphold the principles of open justice, enabling citizens to develop informed perspectives and hold those involved accountable.

    “In the wake of the recent exposé concerning the alleged misconduct of the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, I have instructed my lawyers to petition the Chief Justice for the live broadcast of all subsequent proceedings in the Ambulance Trial. This request is motivated by a deep commitment to transparency and open justice, principles that are fundamental to a fair and impartial legal system.”

    “The allegations against the Attorney-General are deeply concerning. If true, they represent a serious breach of public trust and a threat to the integrity of our judicial system. It is imperative that these allegations be thoroughly investigated and that the public be given the opportunity to witness the proceedings firsthand,” he posted on social media.

  • Suit against commercialisation of GMOs thrown out by Court

    Suit against commercialisation of GMOs thrown out by Court

    The High Court in Accra has dismissed claims made by Food Sovereignty Ghana regarding the National Biosafety Authority’s work on genetically modified (GM) products.

    Justice Barbara Tetteh Charway ruled that the plaintiffs did not provide sufficient evidence to support their claims.

    Food Sovereignty Ghana, along with three other groups, sought declarations on whether the necessary processes and laws were followed in the plans to commercialize GMOs.

    They also sought clarification on whether the defendants adhered to domestic and international laws on risk assessment and management concerning the release and commercialization of Bt cowpea and rice.

    However, the court held that the Biosafety Authority had not yet released any GM products for commercialization, as they were still engaged in extensive research and community sensitization.

    Justice Tetteh Charway ordered the labeling of all genetically modified products on the market to inform consumers and requested relevant data on Bt cowpea imported from Nigeria and sold in Ghana.

    The detailed judgment on the case, which was initiated in 2015, will be provided by the court at a later date.

  • Accra High Court jails Nigerian 10 years for drug trafficking

    Accra High Court jails Nigerian 10 years for drug trafficking

    A 32-year-old Nigerian national, Pascal Okafor Ezugwu, has been sentenced to a 10-year prison term by the High Court for attempting to smuggle 90 thumb-sized cocaine pellets weighing 1.54 kg.

    Mr. Okafor Ezugwu was sentenced on Friday, May 3, 2024, to a minimum of 10 years in hard labor and fined ten thousand penalty units. In the event of default, he will serve an additional three years in prison.

    The court also ordered the destruction of the exhibit, to be supervised by all interested stakeholders in the presence of the court registrar, state prosecutors, and the defense counsel.

    Mr. Okafor Ezugwu was arrested on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, by officers of the Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) at the Kotoka International Airport. He was going through pre-boarding formalities at the departure hall to board a flight to Hanoi, Vietnam.

    A urine test conducted on him revealed traces of narcotic substances. He later expelled a total of 90 thumb-sized pellets during observation by officers, and a field test of the pellets proved positive for cocaine.

    He was subsequently detained and later charged with three counts of narcotic offenses relating to unlawful possession, attempted exportation of narcotic drugs, and money laundering.

    Mr. Ezugwu was arraigned before the Criminal Court Division of the Accra High Court, where he pleaded guilty to all three counts and was consequently convicted on his own plea.

    In a meeting, NACOC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public from the trafficking and use of illicit drugs, ensuring public safety.

    The Commission emphasized that the possession, usage, and transportation of illegal drugs without lawful authorization remain prohibited under sections 40 (1) and 41 (1) of Act 1019 of the Narcotics Control Commission Act 2020. It urges the general public to be aware of the consequences and risks associated with such activities.

  • Ambulance case: 3rd accused dismisses financial loss to the state allegation in court

    Ambulance case: 3rd accused dismisses financial loss to the state allegation in court

    The third accused in the trial involving Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, a former Deputy Minister for Finance, has strongly asserted that none of the accused individuals were responsible for causing financial loss to the state.

    In his court testimony, Richard Dzakpa, a businessman highlighted that the state had accepted possession of the ambulance without any intention to terminate the contract.

    He further noted that the government had fulfilled its commitment by making payment for the ambulance.

    Mr. Dzakpa maintained that all required accessories were delivered as per the contract specifications, refuting any allegations of deliberate or malicious intent to cause financial loss to the state by the accused persons.

    His testimony provides clarity on the case and emphasizes the need to thoroughly examine all relevant evidence. As the trial progresses, more insights are expected to emerge, leading to a better understanding of the situation.

    “It is clear from the particulars of the offence charged against me that the government has itself admitted that the ambulances were supplied to Ghana. The point here I make is that since it is admitted that the ambulances were indeed supplied to the government of Ghana, it cannot be honestly said that the government sustained financial loss when government: has accepted or taken possession of the ambulances and not indicated no intention whatsoever of terminating the contract.

    “The government actually committed itself to performing the contract by paying for the ambulances as confirmed in the negotiated addendum to the contract.”

    Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Dr. Sylvester Anemana a former Chief Director of the Ministry of Health and Businessman, Richard Jakpa are standing trial in connection with the importation of the 30 ambulances.

  • Govt failed to cooperate with Big Sea to install supplied accessories on ambulances – 3rd accused in Ambulance case tells court

    Govt failed to cooperate with Big Sea to install supplied accessories on ambulances – 3rd accused in Ambulance case tells court

    Richard Dzakpa, a businessman and the third accused in the trial involving Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, a former Deputy Minister for Finance, has pointed to the government’s lack of cooperation as a factor contributing to any deterioration observed in the ambulances.

    During his testimony in court, Mr. Dzakpa emphasized that the government did not cooperate with Big Sea Limited, the company responsible for shipping the ambulances and installing the required accessories.

    In his witness statement, Mr. Dzakpa noted that Big Sea Limited had shipped the necessary accessories as per the government’s request. However, upon arrival, the government did not assist in clearing the accessories or facilitate their installation as outlined in the addendum.

    Mr. Dzakpa’s statements suggest that the government’s failure to cooperate hindered the timely installation of the accessories, potentially leading to any deterioration in the ambulances.

    “I must repeat that in this case the government has not complained that the ambulances were not supplied. The government admits that the vehicles were supplied but complains that what was supplied were without accessories. The government has not rejected the goods, already paid for them and has further actually committed in principle to continue paying for subsequent productions till all the 200 ambulances are supplied.”

    “The government and Big Sea have agreed that Big Sea should supply the accessories of which Big Sea has supplied since 2016, but the government has since and still without terminating the contract refused to cooperate to enable Big Sea to install the supplied accessories agreed in the addendum to the contract by clearing the accessories and notifying Big Sea to proceed to fly down to Ghana and fix the accessories as stated in the addendum.”

    “For the past Seven (7) years government has reneged on implementing the addendum negotiated for by both parties.”

  • Court adjourns treason-felony case involving Barker-Vormawor to May 20

    Court adjourns treason-felony case involving Barker-Vormawor to May 20

    The treason trial of #FixTheCountry convener, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, has been adjourned to May 20 this year.

    The court was expected to decide on jurisdiction following a motion by Barker-Vormawor’s lawyers challenging the constitutionality of the offence and requesting the Judge to refer the issue to the Supreme Court.

    In anticipation of Monday’s proceedings, Barker-Vormawor had rallied members of the #FixTheCountry movement to support him at court.

    However, the trial did not take place as scheduled because the sitting judge is currently undergoing a training programme.

    Barker-Vormawor was arrested and charged after a social media post that police investigators claimed contained a clear intent to subvert Ghana’s constitution.

    He was detained on February 11, 2022, at Kotoka International Airport upon his return from the United Kingdom.

    The case has been adjourned to May 20, 2024, for a determination on the court’s jurisdiction and further proceedings.

  • Ivory Coast court sentences 13 to prison in major cocaine trafficking case

    Ivory Coast court sentences 13 to prison in major cocaine trafficking case


    In Ivory Coast, a court has sentenced 13 individuals involved in a significant cocaine trafficking network to 10 years in prison each.

    Among them is a former Spanish police officer identified as the orchestrator of the smuggling scheme.

    The operation resulted in the seizure of over two tonnes of cocaine in the port cities of Abidjan and San Pedro two years ago.

    In addition to the prison terms, the convicted individuals have been ordered to pay nearly $100 million (£80 million) each in fines.

    Notably, those found guilty include an Ivorian regional councillor and a police commissioner.

    The public prosecutor revealed that the investigation uncovered an extensive drug trafficking network spanning South America, Europe, and Ivory Coast.

    Most of the cocaine was intended for transit to Europe, India, and Australia.