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Tag: AG

  • Ofori-Atta’s visa was revoked in June last year before its expiry – Dep’t AG clarifies

    Ofori-Atta’s visa was revoked in June last year before its expiry – Dep’t AG clarifies

    Deputy Attorney General, Dr Srem- Sai has clarified a widely reported narrative about the circumstances surrounding Ghana’s Former Finance Minister’s arrest and detainment by immigration authorities in the United States (US).

    On January 7, Ken Ofori-Atta’s lawyers, Menka-Premo, Osei-Bonsu, Bruce-Cathline and Partners issued a statement confirming their client’s arrest by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) over his immigration status.

    While it was widely reported that he had been detained for overstaying his visa term, the Attorney General’s Department has clarified that his visa was revoked in June last year and he was given up to November 29 to leave the USA; however, he ignored the order, leading to his detention by ICE.

    “ICE will not come for you unless you have visa issues; that is what has happened. In June 2025, his visa was revoked; it’s not an expiration of the Visa. The information we have is that his visa was revoked. So he has been living in America without a visa,” he said on the KeyPoints on TV3 Saturday, January 10.

    According to reports, a US visa can be revoked if the holder becomes ineligible for it. This can happen if they violate their status, commit fraud, or otherwise fall under a ground of inadmissibility.

    Dr Srem-Sai also mentioned that Ghanaian authorities collaborated with the US law enforcement agencies on Ken’s arrest.

    “We are keenly involved in this matter. We collaborate with law enforcement agencies in this matter,” he said on the Key Points on TV3 Saturday, January 10.

    About Ken’s arrest and detention by ICE

    Meanwhile, Ken’s lawyers in their public statement explained that, “The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as of yesterday, detained the former Minister for Finance, Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, regarding the status of his current stay in the United States. His US legal team is in contact with ICE and expects the matter to be resolved expeditiously.”

    Ken Ofori-Atta left Ghana for the United States on January 4, 2025, according to investigative reporting detailing his departure timeline and visa use. As of today, January 8, 2026, that places his time in the U.S. at approximately 1 year and 4 days, following which he has been detained.

    While his lawyers didn’t explicitly state whether he had overstayed his visa time, they noted that “Mr Ofori-Atta has a pending petition for adjustment of status, which authorises a person to stay in the US legally past the period of validity of their visa. Under US law, a change of status by this method is common.”

    His lawyers stressed that their client was a law-abiding individual and had cooperated with the authorities to resolve the issue.

    “The Public is therefore advised to note that Mr Ken Ofori-Atta, as a law-abiding person, is fully cooperating with ICE to have this issue resolved. Bruce Towers, 3 Enmanuto 20 Labone, Accra P. O. Box 14951, Accra, Ghana TEL: +233 (0)302 781624 alafo.atcra@mpb.com.”

    He was reported to have moved to the USA to seek medical care after suffering from post-COVID Multi-System Inflammatory Response Syndrome, diagnosed in 2021, requiring continued medical supervision.

    He has been receiving treatment for prostate cancer and previously underwent a radical prostatectomy at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, following medical evaluations earlier in the year.

    This comes amid a legal tussle involving Ofori-Atta. The Special Prosecutor, for about eight months, has been making efforts to bring him to Ghana to face the law over some corruption-related issues.

    Ofori-Atta, who served as Ghana’s Finance Minister from 2017 to 2023, steered fiscal policy during the COVID-19 pandemic, debt restructuring efforts and IMF negotiations.

    His extended stay in the U.S. has coincided with ongoing legal proceedings in Ghana, including corruption-related charges filed by the Office of the Special Prosecutor in November 2025, currently at the case-management stage.

    The Attorney-General (A-G), Dr Dominic Ayine, would have a difficult time in getting former Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta back in Ghana to face corruption charges, private legal practitioner Austin Brako-Powers has noted.

    Speaking to the media, he explained that the Attorney-General has made public statements that appear biased or unfair, and that has turned the issue into a political matter. Because of this politicisation, he believes Ghana’s case will look weaker and less credible when it is considered by authorities in the United States.

    He added, “I am saying that the Attorney-General will not be successful in extraditing Ken Ofori-Atta to this country. Based on the public commentaries of the Attorney-General and the Special Prosecutor [Kissi Agyebeng], they will not,mark it,be able to extradite Ken Ofori-Atta.”

    “This is a high-profile extradition case involving a former finance minister, a central figure in the previous administration. It will attract significant attention, and key questions around motive, fairness, and political neutrality will arise.

    “Added to that are the prejudicial public statements by the Attorney-General and the Special Prosecutor [Kissi Agyebeng], which risk undermining Ghana’s credibility as a requesting state”.

  • Chief Justice asks Mahama for copies of petitions calling for her removal

    Chief Justice asks Mahama for copies of petitions calling for her removal

    Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo has formally requested copies of petitions submitted to President John Dramani Mahama, which seek her removal from office.

    In a letter dated Thursday, March 27, she appealed to the President for access to these documents, stating that she needs them to provide an informed response.

    Her request follows President Mahama’s decision to consult the Council of State after receiving three petitions calling for her removal.

    At the same time, Vincent Assafuah, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, has taken legal action at the Supreme Court, challenging the process being used to handle the petitions.

    Represented by former Attorney-General Godfred Dame, Assafuah argues that the Chief Justice must be given an opportunity to respond to the allegations before the President initiates consultations with the Council of State.

    request for petitionsDownload

    Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has confirmed that three petitions regarding the potential removal of the Chief Justice have been submitted to the Council of State, in accordance with Article 146 of the 1992 Constitution.

    Although the specific allegations remain undisclosed, this marks the initial phase of a constitutional process that could have far-reaching implications for Ghana’s judiciary. The Council of State is now tasked with reviewing the petitions and advising the President on the appropriate course of action.

    Meanwhile, Chief Justice Torkornoo has formally written to the President, requesting a fair opportunity to respond to the allegations before any further steps are taken.

    “I am by this letter humbly and respectfully asking His Excellency the President and eminent members of the Council of State to forward the petitions against me to me, and allow me at least seven days after receipt of same, to provide my response to you, which response can then form part of the material that you conduct the consultations anticipated under 146 (6), before the possible setting up of a Committee of Inquiry under Article 146 (7),” she stated.

  • Former AG Godfred Dame drags govt to court over mass dismissal of public workers

    Former AG Godfred Dame drags govt to court over mass dismissal of public workers

    Former Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame is representing a group of 40 former public sector employees who have taken the government to court, over the mass dismissal of workers describing it as wrongful and politically motivated.

    This legal action follows a directive issued by the current Attorney General on February 10, 2025, which ordered the revocation of appointments made after December 7, 2024. The government cited irregularities in the recruitment process and concerns over fiscal sustainability as the basis for these terminations.

    The directive sparked widespread criticism from civil society organizations, labor unions, and members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Among the critics was former Attorney General Godfred Dame, who condemned the decision, arguing that it exceeded constitutional authority.

    He referenced Article 191(b) of the 1992 Constitution, which prohibits the dismissal of public sector employees without “just cause.” Dame further pointed out that many of the affected workers were recruited well before the December 7 elections.

    As a result, he has filed a 27-page application for judicial review, invoking Articles 141, 23, and 296 of the Constitution, to challenge the legality of the mass dismissals.

    The dismissed employees, who were hired in 2024, contend that their termination violated constitutional provisions and due process. They are being represented by Dame and Partners, a law firm linked to Godfred Yeboah Dame.

    The lawsuit has been filed against the Attorney General and six key state institutions:

    The Ghana Revenue Authority, the National Lottery Authority, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, the Ghana Shippers Council, and the National Health Insurance Authority.

    Filed Mass Termination CaseDownload

    The dismissed workers are asking the court to rule that their termination was unlawful, arguing that neither the President nor the Chief of Staff has the constitutional authority to remove public servants outside the framework established by Article 191(b) of the Constitution.

    They are also seeking a declaration that the Chief of Staff’s directive is null and void, along with an order for their reinstatement and compensation for the hardship caused by their abrupt dismissal. Furthermore, they want the court to prohibit the government from carrying out any further politically motivated dismissals within the civil service.

    Tafo MP, Ekow Vincent Assafuah, has strongly condemned the dismissals, calling them a clear case of injustice. He noted that the 40 plaintiffs represent only a small portion of those affected, estimating that over 5,000 public servants have been unfairly removed under the Mahama-led administration.

    “These individuals went through the right processes to secure their jobs. Their dismissals are purely political, and it is unacceptable. But we believe in the rule of law, and I have no doubt that justice will be served,” Assafuah stated.

    The government is yet to officially respond to the lawsuit.



  • Adu Boahene, wife take legal action against AG, EOCO

    Adu Boahene, wife take legal action against AG, EOCO

    The High Court is set to rule on the bail application submitted by the lawyers representing former Director-General of the National Signals Bureau (NSB), Kwabena Adu-Boahene, and his wife, Angela Adjei Boateng.

    According to the defense team, the GH¢120 million bail requirement for Adu-Boahene and the GH¢80 million set for his wife are not only excessive but also a deliberate attempt to keep them in detention beyond the constitutional 48-hour limit.

    “The Respondents, with a clear motive to incarcerate the Applicants beyond the 48-hour period as spelt out by the Constitution, have imposed burdensome and unreasonable conditions on the Applicants as the precondition for their granting them bail,” the legal team argued.

    The lawyers maintain that these conditions are being used as a tool to prolong their clients’ detention without trial.

    They have accused the Attorney-General and the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), who are respondents in the case, of obstructing due process.

    “The justification of the bail is at the pleasure of the Respondents,” they added, stressing that their clients’ right to liberty is being infringed upon.

    As the legal battle over the bail terms continues, the High Court is set to rule on the application soon, a decision that could determine whether the couple secures their release or remains in custody.

  • Don’t dare me or else I will release Addison’s recording – AG warns Afenyo-Markin

    Don’t dare me or else I will release Addison’s recording – AG warns Afenyo-Markin

    Attorney General Dr Dominic Ayine has firmly defended the search of former Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor Dr. Ernest Addison’s residence, dismissing claims that it was unlawful.

    Speaking to the media on Monday, March 24, Dr. Ayine clarified that the operation was carried out with a valid High Court warrant. He explained that the search aimed to locate and secure items suspected to be linked to criminal activities.

    He also responded to criticism from Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, who had condemned the government’s actions. Dr Ayine cautioned the MP against undermining law enforcement and stated that he is willing to release a recording of Addison’s comments on the operation if necessary.

    Defending the legality of the search, the Attorney General questioned why some individuals believed they should be exempt from legal investigations.

    “How come a search of the governor’s house, based on credible intelligence, is now being labeled as a raid? I was the one who applied for the warrant, and it was issued by the High Court. Why is that now a problem? Are some people above the law? No one is above the law in this country,” he stated.

    Dr. Ayine further explained that the operation was not a “raid” but a lawful search conducted under the Constitution. He emphasized that Article 18 permits such actions as long as they follow legal procedures.

    He also accused Afenyo-Markin of trying to damage the reputation of law enforcement agencies. Addressing allegations that officials took GHS 10,000 during the search, Dr. Ayine dismissed the claim as baseless and offensive. He also warned against using parliamentary immunity to spread false accusations against public officials.

    “The constitutional immunity granted to MPs does not mean they should abuse that privilege to defame law enforcement officers conducting lawful investigations,” he said.
    In a direct challenge to Afenyo-Markin, Dr. Ayine revealed that his office has an audio recording of Dr. Addison discussing the search.

    “We have a recording of Addison and what he said about the raid. If the Minority Leader, Afenyo-Markin, is daring me, I’ll make that public. He should desist from maligning law enforcement officers and myself,” he warned.

    Dr. Ayine further asserted his authority as the leader of the legal profession, vowing to act within ethical and legal boundaries while ensuring justice is served.

  • MFWA charges AG to announce name of MP who paid to suppress NSA ‘ghost scandal’

    MFWA charges AG to announce name of MP who paid to suppress NSA ‘ghost scandal’

    The Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), Sulemana Braimah, has called on Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, to publicly disclose the identity of the Member of Parliament who was allegedly paid to suppress media reports on the National Service Authority (NSA) ghost names scandal.

    Braimah’s demand follows revelations by Dr. Ayine during an update on the ongoing investigations into the fraudulent payroll scheme.

    The Attorney General revealed that former NSA Director General, Osei Assibey Antwi, had paid a sitting MP to prevent media coverage of the scandal, which involved the illegal inclusion of ghost names on the payroll.

    He further confirmed that significant progress had been made in exposing corruption within the scheme.

    Reacting to the disclosure in a Facebook post, Braimah underscored the need for transparency in the matter, stating:

    “We call on the Attorney General (AG) to name the said MP to whom money was given to kill the story. Doing so will be in the interest of transparency and also to protect the reputation of Parliament.”

    The NSA ghost names scandal is a significant corruption case involving the National Service Authority (NSA) in Ghana.

    Investigations revealed that 81,885 ghost names—nonexistent individuals—were fraudulently added to the payroll. This allowed corrupt officials to siphon millions of Ghanaian cedis meant for legitimate service personnel. The scheme involved fake index numbers and even included individuals over 80 years old.

    The scandal came to light after an exposé by The Fourth Estate in November 2024, which uncovered systemic abuse dating back to 2017.

  • Mode of search at ex-BoG governor’s residence legal – Deputy A-G’

    Mode of search at ex-BoG governor’s residence legal – Deputy A-G’

    Deputy Attorney General Dr. Justice Srem Sai has confirmed that the National Security raid on the Roman Ridge residence of former Bank of Ghana (BoG) Governor Dr. Ernest Addison on March 19 was legally sanctioned by the Attorney General’s Office and conducted with proper warrants.

    During a media engagement on Thursday, March 20, he affirmed, “Every search you see is part of the government’s framework to fight corruption, and we take responsibility for the searches that are happening.”

    He also clarified, “Those searches and the mode in which they were done were carried out in accordance with the law. Warrants were procured, and warrants were used to conduct those searches.”

    In response to concerns raised by the Minority in Parliament over recent raids, the Deputy Minister disclosed that such actions are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption during the previous administration.

    Following the raid, the Minority in Parliament accused operatives of stealing GH₵10,000 and jewelry belonging to Dr. Addison’s wife. They condemned the operation as a “Rambo-style approach” and warned that such actions could harm Ghana’s democratic image and deter investors.

    In response, a National Security officer stated that the raid was conducted based on intelligence suggesting that Dr. Addison was in possession of funds belonging to the central bank. They maintained that the operation was lawful, backed by a search warrant, and executed in line with standard procedures.

    As part of their investigative process, operatives also retrieved the hard drive from Dr. Addison’s CCTV system, a move they described as routine. Addressing allegations of theft, an official firmly dismissed the accusations.

    “We did not take any money or jewelry from Dr. Addison’s home. We will, in due course, make public a full list of items retrieved during the search,” the official disclosed.

    This is at least the second time Richard Jakpa has led a group of armed men to raid the home of a high-profile former official from the Akufo-Addo administration since President John Mahama took office on January 7, 2025.

    The first incident involved Ken Ofori-Atta, Ghana’s longest-serving finance minister, whose home in Labone, Accra, was raided by over 15 armed men on February 10.

    The entire operation was recorded by CCTV cameras at the property, and the footage was later released to the public.

    The Majority in Parliament apologized to Ken Ofori-Atta following the raid on his residence by military and police officers.

    According to the Majority, its investigation into the incident revealed that the operation was led by Richard Jakpa, an official at the National Security Coordinator’s office.

    Addressing the issue on the floor of Parliament, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga described the raid as regrettable, emphasizing that the Mahama government remains committed to protecting the rights of all citizens.

  • A-G’s Office set to prosecute individuals identified by ORAL team

    A-G’s Office set to prosecute individuals identified by ORAL team

    Deputy Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, has confirmed that the Attorney General’s Office is preparing to prosecute individuals flagged by the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) team.

    Speaking on the government’s commitment to tackling corruption during a media engagement on Thursday, March 20, Dr. Srem Sai assured the public that the legal process is being handled with diligence to ensure due process is followed.

    “We agree that most Ghanaians decided to vote for the NDC government because of the ORAL promise. Bear with us and be a little more patient. In a few weeks, you will see that ORAL is not just a campaign slogan but something President John Mahama is determined to make happen,” he noted.

    Acknowledging public curiosity about when prosecutions will begin, he emphasized that the legal team is working meticulously to build solid cases.

    “Every day, I see people on social media really asking when ORAL is going to start. I will take this opportunity to assure the public that President Mahama’s government is still committed to sternly fighting corruption, bringing culprits to book, and, most importantly, recovering the loot that we have all been seeing,” he continued.

    Dr. Srem Sai stressed that while the demand for immediate action is understandable, the legal process must be thorough and fair.

    “What we are doing at the AG’s department is what we call building the dockets for these prosecutions. As much as we know the public is eager to see what they call action, we must ensure it is done within the framework of the rule of law. We must respect the rights of individuals, even those we know are involved in corruption, let alone those we suspect,” he added.

    About ORAL

    Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) is an anti-corruption task force established by President John Dramani Mahama following his electoral victory in December 2024. The initiative aims to combat corruption, recover stolen state funds, and restore public confidence in national institutions.

    Chaired by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the ORAL team comprises former Auditor-General Daniel Yao Domelevo, retired Commissioner of Police Nathaniel Kofi Boakye, legal expert Martin Kpebu, and investigative journalist Raymond Archer.

    The team submitted its report to President Mahama on February 10, detailing findings from a 53-day investigation into corruption cases. According to the report, potential recoveries amount to $21.19 billion in misappropriated funds and assets.

    The initiative has faced criticism from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), which has questioned its impartiality. Richard Ahiagbah labeled it a “witch hunt,” while former Attorney-General Godfred Dame raised concerns about its legality, arguing that it bypassed established institutions. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has also threatened legal action should he be implicated, accusing the team of espionage.

    To encourage public participation, ORAL has launched a toll-free hotline and an online reporting platform where Ghanaians can securely provide information on corrupt activities.

    With the Attorney General’s office now preparing for prosecutions, the ORAL initiative is set to transition from investigations to legal action, reinforcing the Mahama administration’s pledge to fight corruption.

  • Treason case against Barker-Vormawor officially withdrawn by AG

    Treason case against Barker-Vormawor officially withdrawn by AG

    The treason felony charges against Oliver Barker-Vormawor have been officially dismissed by the Attorney General (A-G), Dr. Dominic Ayine.

    For more than two years, Oliver Barker-Vormawor has been embroiled in legal proceedings over allegations of plotting a coup.

    In 2022, National Security operatives arrested Mr. Barker-Vormawor and charged him with treason felony after he threatened a coup should Parliament approve the contentious E-Levy bill, which was later enacted into law.

    However, the AG’s move to discontinue the case against Mr. Barker-Vormawor is the latest in a series of high-profile trials that have been dropped since he assumed office.

    On Tuesday, March 18, when the case was called, both Barker-Vormawor and his lawyers were absent from the courtroom.

    However, Principal State Attorney Esi Dentaa Yankah was present and formally introduced the prosecution team as proceedings commenced.

    The hearing was brief, with Justice Mary Ekua Yanzu acknowledging the Attorney General’s nolle prosequi filing. She then ruled that the charges be struck out, effectively discharging the accused.

    According to Dr. Ayine decision aligns with a broader effort to review key criminal prosecutions. Among the cases he has discontinued are those involving Dr. Stephen Opuni and businessman Seidu Agongo, as well as former Bank of Ghana Governor Dr. Johnson Asiama.

    During a press conference, Dr. Ayine provided explanations for these actions and suggested a possible reassessment of Barker-Vormawor’s case.

    In response to the court’s ruling, Barker-Vormawor took to social media to extend his appreciation to those who had supported him throughout the legal process.

    Barker-Vormawor reacted to the news with a mix of emotions, reflecting on the impact the case had on his academic and personal life.

    He pointed out that the legal proceedings had successfully disrupted his doctoral studies and sarcastically credited the government and Godfred Dame for that outcome.

    “Since the intention was to impede my doctoral programme, I want to say Ayekoo to the Government and to Godfred Dame. They succeeded. Kindly release my passport and take me off the No-Fly List,” he stated.

    He further highlighted the financial strain caused by the case, revealing that he had lost his funding for Cambridge.

    “Now that I have lost my funding for Cambridge; we need to address that too so I can finish my programme,” he added.

  • A-G nominates Xavier Sosu, 2 others to General Legal Council

    A-G nominates Xavier Sosu, 2 others to General Legal Council

    Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has nominated three individuals to serve on the General Legal Council in accordance with Section 1(2) of the Legal Profession Act, 1960, and Paragraph 2(1)(d) of the First Schedule to the Act.

    A statement from the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice announced the selection of Francis-Xavier Sosu, Member of Parliament for Madina; Clara Beeri Kasser-Tee, a lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Law; and Dr. Abdul-Bassit Aziz Bamba, a senior lecturer at the same institution.

    These nominees have been chosen to bring their legal expertise to the Council, which is responsible for regulating legal education and upholding professional standards within the legal profession.

    The statement also confirmed that President John Dramani Mahama has been officially informed of the nominations. Additionally, the Chief Justice, Gertrude Torkornoo, was assured of the Attorney-General’s full commitment to the process.

    About nominees

    Clara Beeri Kasser-Tee is a distinguished lawyer and law lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Law. She is the founder and head of Kasser Law Firm and has made significant contributions to legal education, political and institutional development in Ghana. Clara is known for her expertise in Oil and Gas Law, Environmental Law, and Taxation, and has developed innovative concepts to improve tax collection in Ghana. She is also a respected public figure, often engaging with the media and the Ghana Revenue Authority on national issues.

    Francis-Xavier Sosu is a human rights lawyer and politician, currently serving as the Member of Parliament for the Madina Constituency. He is a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and has a strong background in sociology, law, and economic policy management. Sosu is known for his advocacy for human rights and legal reforms, including his successful efforts to abolish capital punishment in Ghana. His journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a prominent lawyer and politician is a testament to his resilience and dedication to justice.

    Dr. Abdul-Bassit Aziz Bamba is a senior lecturer at the University of Ghana School of Law, where he teaches courses on Constitutional Law, Human Rights Law, and International Commercial Arbitration. He holds advanced degrees from Harvard Law School and has extensive experience in legal practice and consulting. Dr. Bamba has worked with various international organizations and has published extensively on topics such as criminal law, constitutional law, and human rights. His academic and professional achievements make him a valuable asset to the General Legal Council.

  • A-G withdraws charges against Bishop Salifu; re-arrested after release

    A-G withdraws charges against Bishop Salifu; re-arrested after release

    In a surprising turn of events, the Attorney-General has dropped charges against prominent clergyman Bishop Salifu Amoako, Mouha Amoako, and another individual believed to be his maid, resulting in their release from the court in the East Legon accident case.

    However, there are unverified reports indicating that they were promptly re-arrested under new legal grounds as soon as they exited the courthouse. The reasons for the abrupt withdrawal of charges and the immediate re-arrest are still shrouded in mystery.

    Bishop Elijah Salifu Amoako, his son’s mother, Mouha Amoako, and a sales assistant named Linda Bonsu Bempah were arrested because of a terrible accident caused by their 16-year-old son in East Legon on October 12, 2024.

    The teenager was driving a white Jaguar F-Space Sports without a license when he hit an Acura utility vehicle. The Acura caught fire, and two young girls sadly died as a result.

    In December 2024, the court sentenced the son to six months in the Senior Correctional Center for causing the deaths of the two people.

    At first, the boy said he was not guilty of manslaughter, causing harm by being careless, dangerous driving, and driving without a license. But he later admitted he was guilty, which led to his conviction.

    As part of his punishment, the teenager must report to probation officers every two weeks and sign a promise not to drive until he turns 18.

    Separately, the court fined his parents 500 penalty units each (about GHc 6,000) for not supervising him properly. They also have to pay for the damages caused by the accident, including a light pole worth GHc 8,000.

  • Ambulance case: AG is twisting facts to mislead the public – Dame

    Ambulance case: AG is twisting facts to mislead the public – Dame

    Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has dismissed allegations of professional misconduct in the contentious ambulance procurement case involving current Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    His successor, Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine, leveled the accusations during a press briefing on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, alleging that Dame’s approach to prosecuting the case was unethical and inappropriate.

    The case centers on the procurement of 200 ambulances under the John Mahama administration, with claims of financial mismanagement and contract irregularities.

    Addressing journalists on Friday, February 14, Dame rejected the accusations, labeling them misleading and unfounded.

    He also took issue with Dr. Ayine’s stance, calling attention to what he described as contradictions in his claims.

    “Dr. Ayine’s unfounded allegations insinuating unethical conduct on my part in the ambulance case is highly disingenuous and rather unfortunately, recaps the series of falsehoods peddled by foot soldiers of the NDC and other uninformed members of society

    “I must say that I find it quite ironical for Dr. Ayine who is a subject of disciplinary proceedings for professional misconduct still pending at the General Legal Council to accuse me of unethical conduct.”

  • Why govt dismissed ‘politically motivated cases’ – Kwakye Ofosu explains

    Why govt dismissed ‘politically motivated cases’ – Kwakye Ofosu explains

    Minister of State for Government Communication, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has justified the Attorney General’s decision to drop certain major court cases, saying they were politically motivated.

    In an interview on Point of View on Channel One TV on Monday, February 10, he claimed that the previous government used these cases to unfairly target opposition members, particularly those from the National Democratic Congress (NDC). He mentioned former Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and former NDC National Chairman Samuel Ofosu Ampofo as some of those affected.

    Kwakye Ofosu argued that these legal actions had no real basis and were mainly intended to intimidate NDC officials and silence critics.

    “I have always maintained that what justification existed for prosecuting Ofosu Ampofo and leaving out the state-sponsored terrorists who engaged in the mayhem at the Ayawaso West by-election?” he questioned.

    “There was a commission of inquiry that prescribed sanctions for them. The government refused to act on it. Rather, it chose to go after the chairman of the opposition party, accusing him of convening a meeting to discuss a response to the attack that NDC members suffered. This was clearly a travesty of justice,” he added.

    Kwakye Ofosu also pointed to the prosecution of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, as another example of politically motivated legal action. He suggested that the case against Ato Forson was deliberately brought to weaken his influence in Parliament during crucial national debates.

    “There is no doubt that the Ato Forson case was instituted to silence him as a ranking member of the Finance Committee when the E-Levy debate came up. The Appeals Court threw it out,” he stated.

    The Minister also disclosed that Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine will soon hold a press conference to explain why charges against certain individuals were dropped.

    He accused the previous government of using the courts to go after NDC members, including former Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) CEO, Dr. Stephen Opuni.

    The Attorney General’s decision has stirred public debate, with some raising concerns about its legal and political impact. However, Kwakye Ofosu believes it is the right move to fix past wrongs.

  • Ambulance Trial: Attorney General drops case against Ato Forson and Jakpa

    Ambulance Trial: Attorney General drops case against Ato Forson and Jakpa

    Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has officially withdrawn an appeal filed by his predecessor, Godfred Yeboah Dame, challenging a Court of Appeal ruling that acquitted Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa of charges related to financial loss to the state.

    In a Notice of Abandonment of Appeal dated January 23, 2025, Dr. Ayine indicated that the state would no longer pursue the case.

    “Please take notice that the Republic, having previously served notice of appeal against the judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal on July 30, 2024, hereby gives notice that it does not intend to prosecute the appeal further and abandons all proceedings related to this matter from the date of this notice,” he stated.

    On July 30, 2024, the Court of Appeal ruled in favor of an appeal filed by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the former Deputy Minister of Finance and then Minority Leader, challenging an earlier decision by the Financial and Economic Court.

    The appeal stemmed from a March 2023 ruling by the High Court, which had ordered Dr. Forson to present his defense after the Attorney General’s office established a prima facie case against him in the €2.37 million ambulance procurement case.

    Also facing trial were Seth Anemana, a former Chief Director at the Ministry of Health, and businessman Richard Jakpa. The court had directed all three to open their defenses against allegations of willfully causing financial loss to the state over the procurement of ambulances that were deemed unfit for use.

  • I will seek A-G’s insight on anti-LGBTQ+ bill – Bagbin

    I will seek A-G’s insight on anti-LGBTQ+ bill – Bagbin

    Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has stated his plans to approach the newly appointed Attorney General and Minister for Justice for guidance on the Anti-LGBTQ+ Bill.

    Speaking to members of the Ghanaian community in Côte d’Ivoire on January 26, 2025, Bagbin underlined the significance of the bill, which had been approved by Parliament but was not signed into law by former President Akufo-Addo, a move Bagbin considered unconstitutional.

    “The LGBTQ bill was passed by Parliament, the former president refused to assent to it, which was unconstitutional. There is no law allowing the president to refuse or fail to assent to a bill passed by Parliament.

    “Parliament is the authority for passing laws, not any other person, not the president. That decision was wrong, and all of you punished him for that,” Bagbin stated.

    He reiterated his commitment to having the bill passed this year, stressing its vital importance.

    “I am going to write to the new Attorney General and Minister for Justice for his comments for us to resend it to the new president for his assent. So it is not going to take time it will be passed this year. It is anti-God…Nobody should joke with me when it comes to that area. I can lose my life because of that,” he added.

  • ORAL to brief AG on public asset recovery progress

    ORAL to brief AG on public asset recovery progress

    Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, is scheduled to meet with the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) Committee next week to assess its progress and review data on recovered looted public assets.

    The ORAL Committee, which is responsible for investigating corruption cases and verifying reports of embezzled public resources, is currently handling over 700 petitions submitted by the public.

    This meeting marks a pivotal step in the ongoing efforts to address corruption and retrieve stolen assets.

    Dr. Ayine noted that the session will focus on evaluating the committee’s findings and strategizing the next steps in the asset recovery initiative.

    He promised to take over the findings provided by the committee for further action,” he noted.

    The forthcoming meeting is anticipated to play a crucial role in advancing the government’s fight against corruption, promoting accountability and transparency in the recovery of public assets.

    “The ORAL committee and I will be meeting somewhere early next week most likely on Monday and I will be briefed by them in respect of what they have gathered so far and of course I will take over the information that they have gathered.”

  • Honor the trust Ghanaians have placed in you – Domelevo advices Mahama

    Honor the trust Ghanaians have placed in you – Domelevo advices Mahama

    Former Auditor-General of Ghana (AG), Mr. Daniel Yao Domelevo, has urged the incoming John Mahama administration not to take the overwhelming electoral victory for granted. 

    According to him, the majority of Members of Parliament (MPs) that the people gave to former President Mahama at the December 7 polls is to allow him to do good things for the country. 

    “It will be expected that he leaves a legacy that we can say that we have lived through four years of unprecedented good governance. That he is not going to say because I have the majority in parliament, we will pass through parliament and get approved policies that are not good for the people.

    Any changes or amendments to the constitutions and the laws of Ghana that will help us to ensure better governance, I think I am all for it”. 

    Mr. Domelevo made the call when he spoke to the media in reaction to the overwhelming victory of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the 2024 elections. 

    He also called for a complete separation of the office of the Attorney General (AG) from that of the Minister of Justice to enhance accountability. 

    He argued that there was no way that a cabinet minister like the AG can be held accountable by his colleague minister (AG). 

    “In fact, there is no way that you can sit in cabinet, be part of a policy decision or any decision, and when a decision is implemented with even advice from you, you come back and hold your colleague, member of parliament, or cabinet accountable,” he said. 

    The former auditor-general also urged Mr. Mahama to immediately begin work after his swearing-in to recover the looted funds as he promised, adding that he should not relent as there was work to be done. 

    “He and his team should know that there is no honeymoon for them. He and his team should hit the ground running. Fortunately, he is not a novice at this; he has been there before and knows what to do. 

    “I think from day one after swearing in, he and his team should start work on what needs to be done immediately, especially the looted funds he promised us that he is going to recover. I think he must take immediate action to ensure that these monies are not taken out of the country,” he said. 

  • Africa must enhance laws to prosecute international crimes – AG

    Africa must enhance laws to prosecute international crimes – AG

    Attorney General (AG), Godfred Dame, has emphasized the need for African countries to amend their domestic legislation to recognize international crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide.

    According to AG, this recognition can be achieved through the domestication of the Rome Statute, enabling national courts to assume jurisdiction over these crimes, or by passing specific legislation that aligns with international standards for punishment.

    During a recent speech at the Annual Conference of States Parties to the International Criminal Court on Monday the AG added that the call for legal reform is integral to strengthening Africa’s role in international justice and supporting the International Criminal Court (ICC) in its mission.

    “Domestic legislations of African countries must recognise war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide as specific offences,” he said.

    Mr Dame emphasized that national laws should be harmonized with international legal frameworks to ensure that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are held accountable within domestic courts.

    He stated, “The passage of a specific legislation affirming the creation of such offences with punishment duly prescribed according to international standards and a forum for punishment of same within our respective domestic legal jurisdictions duly stipulated” is crucial for ensuring justice at the national level.

    Mr Dame has also embraced the International Criminal Court (ICC)’s recent initiatives to investigate international crimes beyond Africa’s borders.

    “Ghana welcomes the opening of preliminary investigations into several situations outside the African continent by the Court and the establishment of OTP offices abroad,” he noted.

    This development, Mr Dame pointed out, helps dispel the perception that the ICC focuses disproportionately on Africa.

    He explained, “This development and its visible outcomes could help dispel the perception that the Court unduly concentrates on Africa, especially as international crimes under the Statute know no geographical boundaries.”

    According to the Attorney General, it is essential that the ICC’s mandate be applied universally, with the Court’s searchlight focusing on war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity globally.

    He noted that amidst increasing cyber and political threats to the security of the ICC, Ghana has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Court’s independence.

    Mr. Dame led Ghana’s delegation, which included Ghana’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Francis Danti Kotia, and Deputy Head of Mission, Yaowi Senalor.

    The Twenty-Third Session of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP) to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague is scheduled to conclude on December 7, 2024.

  • Police and AG dragged to court over assault of lady in custody

    Police and AG dragged to court over assault of lady in custody

    Judith Yaa Kumah, who lost part of her ear during a police investigation into an alleged robbery, has filed a lawsuit against the Ghana Police Service (GPS), Corporal Clement Suputour, and the Attorney General (AG) for human rights violations and seeking GH¢15 million in damages.

    Kumah’s lawyer, Mr. Andrew Khartey, has taken legal action against the defendants, including the AG, who represents the government. The defendants have been given eight days to respond to the suit, or judgment may be rendered in their absence.

    The suit claims GH¢6 million for human rights violations by the GPS and its officers, GH¢3 million for false arrest, assault, and battery, and another GH¢3 million for negligence and violations of her fundamental rights.

    Kumah is also seeking an additional GH¢3 million for the torturous acts she endured, including the forced extraction of a statement, and the trauma caused by her injury. Furthermore, Khartey is asking the Court to order the defendants to cover all expenses for the reconstruction of Kumah’s ear and for resolving her hearing impairment.

    According to the statement of claim, Kumah was arrested without being informed of the reason for her detention and without any legal justification, making her arrest unlawful. The writ further details the physical injury inflicted on her, including the amputation of part of her ear, which is described as an act of assault and battery. The writ also states that the delay in providing medical results violated Kumah’s right to health and life.

    Kumah was arrested on February 29, 2024, while visiting her boyfriend at the Community One Police Station, where he had been detained. Instead of being released, she was arrested and transferred to the Community Eight Police Station. There, Corporal Suputour allegedly attempted to forcibly extract a confession from her without informing her of the reason for her arrest or her right to a lawyer. She was questioned about a crime involving another individual, which she denied knowledge of.

    During the interrogation, Suputour allegedly cut off the upper part of Kumah’s right ear with a metal object. Instead of receiving medical treatment, Kumah was offered marijuana by the officer to ease the pain, which she declined. Later, under orders from a senior officer, Suputour took Kumah to the Community Two Police Clinic, but the clinic lacked the necessary medical equipment to treat her injuries. The severed part of her ear was reportedly not preserved and has since gone missing.

    At the clinic, it was discovered that Kumah was pregnant, but Suputour showed no concern for her condition and instead returned her to the police station for further questioning. During her continued detention, Kumah was accused of involvement in a car robbery after being allegedly identified in CCTV footage related to the crime. Suputour allegedly coerced her into signing a confession, threatening to cut off her other ear if she did not comply.

    Despite the accusations, security officers at the crime scene did not identify Kumah, and she was not recognized during an identification parade. Ultimately, Kumah was charged, but the prosecution failed to present the CCTV footage in court, leading to her discharge. New suspects were later charged for the same crime.

    The writ further states that Kumah has suffered significant emotional distress, including embarrassment, reduced confidence in social situations, and trauma from the unlawful treatment. She is seeking compensation for the physical, emotional, and psychological harm caused by the violation of her rights and dignity.

  • AG Godfred Dame calls for 1,500 more state attorneys to fix legal service gaps

    AG Godfred Dame calls for 1,500 more state attorneys to fix legal service gaps

    Attorney General (AG), Godfred Dame, has urged the government to recruit an additional 1,500 state attorneys to strengthen the legal infrastructure supporting public institutions. 

    He outlined this need during the opening ceremony of the Conference of Public Sector Lawyers at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, attended by President Akufo-Addo and other officials.

    Dame pointed out that Ghana currently has around 370 state attorneys serving the public sector, a number he argued is insufficient given the growing complexity of the country’s legal needs. 

    Addressing the president directly, he noted the recent recruitment drive under Akufo-Addo’s administration, which will soon bring 70 new attorneys on board. With these appointments, a total of 190 attorneys will have joined the Attorney General’s office during the president’s tenure.

    To ensure more effective governance, Dame called for a model where at least one state attorney is stationed at every ministry, department, agency (MDA), and district assembly. 

    “Mr. President, I cannot resume my seat without commenting on the need to enhance the capacity of the Office of the A-G to place it in the position to rise to the demands of the complexity of modern legal needs of the state,” he said. This, he explained, would address inefficiencies and improve coordination across government functions.

    A core issue, Dame highlighted, is the lack of centralization in government legal work. Presently, some public sector institutions employ their own lawyers, leading to gaps in coordination. 

    “The situation whereby some ministries, departments, agencies or, metropolitan, municipal and district assembly employ their own lawyers does not augur well for proper harmony and synchronisation of government’s legal work,” Dame noted.

     His vision, he added, is for all public sector lawyers to be employed directly through the Attorney General’s office to establish a unified approach to government legal services.

    Dame also took the opportunity to commend President Akufo-Addo for his ongoing support of the Attorney General’s office. Among the achievements noted were recent infrastructure upgrades, including the new 12-story headquarters, Law House, completed five months ago. 

    Dame added that in the next administration, “every regional office of the Ministry of Justice will own its permanent office building,” underscoring plans for continued investment in the legal sector’s infrastructure.

    Dame’s call for additional attorneys aims to enhance cohesion, reduce legal bottlenecks, and support a more efficient public sector in Ghana.

  • UTAG urges AG to halt prosecution of Democracy Hub protesters

    UTAG urges AG to halt prosecution of Democracy Hub protesters

    University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has called on the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice to submit a nolle prosequi to facilitate the prompt release of the protesters detained at Democracy Hub.

    UTAG has expressed its worries regarding the recent arrests and the continued detention of the demonstrators from the Democracy Hub, advocating for their swift release.

    “UTAG voiced serious concern over the recent arrests and ongoing detention of demonstrators from the Democracy Hub and called for their immediate release.

    While UTAG condemned the arrests as violations of the protesters’ fundamental rights and freedoms, the Association acknowledged that the exercise of such rights must occur within the framework of the rule of law.

    UTAG urged the Ghana Police Service to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and protest, which is in line with the democratic principles that govern the nation.

    UTAG also encouraged the Attorney General and Minister for Justice to file a nolle prosequi to expedite the release of the detained demonstrators,” a communiqué issued after the fourth quarter meeting for 2024 at the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS) said.

    The meeting, organised by the National Executive Council, aimed to address several pressing issues raised by its members.

    Earlier, Dr. Dominic Ayine, a former Deputy Attorney General, condemned the actions of the Democracy Hub protesters during their demonstration last week, which included alleged road blockages and confrontations with the police.

    Nonetheless, he argued that such behaviour should not be grounds for denying them bail. In his view, withholding bail from the protesters constitutes a violation of their rights.

    Speaking on the Key Points on TV3 on Saturday, September 28, the Bolgatanga East lawmaker said “The blocking of traffic is something that is condemnable; the attempt to engage in fisticuffs with police is something that we should condemn. Having said that, I do not think that the activities they engaged in are sufficient reasons you say they should be detained without bail.

    That is where my concern is. The denial of bail in this case is tantamount to punishing them; it is tantamount to judicial abuse of the rights of the citizens

    He also criticised the police for denying the suspects access to their lawyers.

    “The right to counsel is a key fundamental right… they need the assistance of a legal professional to be able to understand the issues so the Police acted in abuse of their right.”

    The state has brought eight charges against leading members of Democracy Hub, including offensive conduct, breach of the peace, and theft from some protesters.

    An Accra Circuit Court has remanded Oliver Barker-Vormawor, Felicity Nelson, and eleven others into police custody for two weeks. Their lawyers sought bail after the group pleaded not guilty. While Barker-Vormawor faces eight charges, including offensive conduct and theft, the other twelve are charged with six offences.

    Judge Kwabena Obiri Yeboah ordered the police to ensure the protesters receive food after reports emerged that they had gone without sustenance for approximately three days.

    Oliver Barker-Vormawor, who missed his initial court appearance due to health issues, arrived at the circuit court appearing frail and limping. Fanny Otoo could not attend the hearing, while Barker-Vormawor’s lawyer, Dr. Justice Srem Sai, claimed that the police had neglected his client’s medical needs, resulting in his collapse while in custody.

    In response to claims of police brutality during the Democracy Hub protest last weekend, law enforcement denied using excessive force, despite facing provocations. Following the unrest, police reported the arrest of 54 individuals, all of whom have been charged in accordance with legal procedures.

  • I have stepped on Ministers’ toes to uphold the law – A-G Dame

    I have stepped on Ministers’ toes to uphold the law – A-G Dame

    Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Dame, has reflected on his tenure since assuming office in 2021, emphasizing the challenges of the role including clashing with fellow government officials to uphold the law.

    He shared these insights during the Annual Ghana Bar Association Conference in Kumasi, under the theme, “Peaceful, Fair, and Transparent Elections: The Key to Sustainable Democracy.”

    Dame highlighted that serving as Attorney-General during the second term of a government comes with unique difficulties. According to him, the role involves dealing with the aftermath of tough policy decisions made in the first term, many of which may be unpopular with the public.

    As a result, he has often had to make himself unpopular by advising Ministers against pursuing certain legislation and policies, even if they were in the national interest, when they conflicted with the law.

    He recounted particularly challenging moments, such as his legal advice to the Minister of Finance regarding domestic debt restructuring and his guidance to the Minister of Health during the COVID-19 pandemic, both at critical junctures in Ghana’s history.

    “I remember the painful opinion I gave to the Minister for Finance on the domestic debt restructuring at a difficult time for the nation,” Dame said, underscoring the weight of the decisions he has had to make.

    In Ghana’s political climate, Mr Dame noted that his legal decisions often cast him as a “sworn enemy” to political adversaries, particularly in cases related to prosecutions or civil actions involving the government. Despite this, he remains resolute in his dedication to the law and its role in developing Ghanaian society.

    “With courage and strength, I have taken the slings and arrows of a critical free media, even when they are unjustified or wrong,” he remarked. “I am strong in my conviction that there is no other institution that has affected, and has the authority and the jurisdiction to affect so many components of justice in this country, than the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice.”

    Reflecting on his achievements, Dame expressed pride in what he and his team have accomplished since 2021. “Whatever I have done since 2021, I have done it in the best interests of Ghana, and state attorneys and staff at the Law Office. I could not be prouder of our record of achievement over the last three and a half years.”

    The Attorney-General closed his remarks by reaffirming his commitment to upholding the law, even when it means stepping on the toes of those in power, and promised to continue delivering on his mandate in the service of Ghana.

  • Global cooperate accountability and integrity fundamental in tracing assets of criminals- AG

    Global cooperate accountability and integrity fundamental in tracing assets of criminals- AG

    Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has called for stronger global cooperation to address the rising challenge of cross-border economic and financial crimes.

    While delivering the keynote address at the 41st Cambridge International Symposium on Economic Crime, Mr. Dame highlighted the essential role of international collaboration among justice partners in effectively combating these increasingly pervasive threats.

    “The survival of the global community is dependent on how effectively it can foster collaboration between its justice partners to combat global crime,” he stated.

    Mr. Dame also emphasised Ghana’s proactive stance in addressing financial crime through significant legal reforms.

    “Bearing in mind the motives and modus operandi of the perpetrators of financial crime, far-reaching institutional reform has been deliberately undertaken by the Republic of Ghana to trace the assets of criminals and ensure that wrongdoers do not profit from the crimes they commit,” he explained.

    He highlighted the importance of the Economic and Organised Crimes Office Act of 2011, which established the Economic and Organised Crimes Office (EOCO).

    This agency is pivotal in combating organised crime by detecting criminal activities and ensuring the confiscation of illegally obtained assets.

    “I refer to the Economic and Organised Crimes Office Act of 2011, which was passed to establish EOCO as an agency to prevent and detect organised crime as well as to facilitate the confiscation of the proceeds of crime,” Mr. Dame added.

  • AG sets record straight $111m judgement debt

    AG sets record straight $111m judgement debt

    Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has explained that the Trafigura judgment debt issue is not new, emphasizing that no recent judgment has been made against Ghana by a U.S. court.

    This statement was made in response to reports that a District of Columbia Court had ordered the Ghanaian government to pay over $111 million, along with post-judgment interest, following a Motion of Judgment in favor of the Ghana Power Generation Company (GPGC).

    During an appearance on Citi FM on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, Mr Dame clarified that , “This award was given way back in 2021, and the government since then has had the obligation to pay, and indeed they have been making efforts to pay.

    “It is the failure to exhaust payment which has led to the company seeking enforcement orders in other jurisdictions. It is not the case where there has been a new judgment or a fresh award given by any court or any tribunal anywhere.”

    He further dispelled the notion that a new judgment debt had been issued, stating, “The impression that is sought to be created by the publication that I have seen today—another judgment debt, a new judgment debt, US Court awards, there is no US Court which is awarding judgment against the government of Ghana.

    “It is only an enforcement order, and that enforcement order is on account of a failure to pay a judgment debt which accrued way back in January 2021 as a result of an award that was given that time.”

    Meanwhile, a recent document from a U.S. District Court has uncovered a series of missteps by Ghana’s legal team, which ultimately prevented the country from contesting a $134 million judgment awarded to Trafigura by the English courts.

    This case centers on a power purchase agreement between Trafigura’s subsidiary, GPGC, and the Ghanaian government. The agreement was unilaterally terminated by Ghana in 2018, prompting a legal dispute that led to a significant judgment against the country.

    Despite a definitive ruling from a UK tribunal that ordered Ghana to pay $134,348,661, the government only made partial payments, leaving an outstanding balance of $111,493,828.92, with interest continuing to accrue.

    Compounding the issue, Ghana failed to meet critical deadlines to appeal the UK judgment, further deepening the country’s financial obligations and complicating its legal standing in the matter.

  • AG Dame makes donation to support NPP claim Bono Region

    AG Dame makes donation to support NPP claim Bono Region

    Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has made a significant donation to bolster the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) campaign efforts in the Bono Region ahead of the 2024 general election.

    During a meeting held in Sunyani on August 15, 2024, Mr. Dame met with Parliamentary Candidates, Regional and Constituency Executives of the NPP to strategize on securing victory in the region.

    The meeting saw high-profile attendees, including Regional Minister Awo Banahene and Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah Yeboah.

    Mr. Dame emphasized the importance of unity within the party, calling on members to come together and focus on promoting the NPP’s achievements to ensure electoral success.

    As part of his support for the campaign, Mr. Dame donated 70 motorbikes, 12,000 T-shirts, and an undisclosed amount of money to the Bono Regional Secretariat.

    He announced that the motorbikes would be distributed across the 12 constituencies in the region, with five going to each constituency and ten to regional executives.

    These resources, he said, are crucial for enhancing grassroots mobilization and reaching remote areas in the run-up to the elections.

    “The 2024 elections are crucial, and we must equip ourselves with the necessary tools to engage with every voter in every corner of the region,” Mr. Dame stated, expressing confidence that with dedication and hard work, the NPP would secure a decisive victory.

    Kofi Boateng, Bono Regional Secretary, expressed appreciation for Mr. Dame’s consistent support and assured him that the donated resources would be put to good use.

    He urged party members to stay disciplined and focused as they work towards winning the December 2024 elections.

    Regional Minister Awo Banahene and Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah Yeboah echoed the importance of the party’s dedication to retaining power, with Mr. Yeboah commending Mr. Dame for his unwavering support and goodwill toward the Bono Region’s campaign efforts.

  • AG appeals acquittal of Ato Forson, Richard Jakpa in ambulance case at Supreme Court

    AG appeals acquittal of Ato Forson, Richard Jakpa in ambulance case at Supreme Court

    The Office of the Attorney General has appealed the Court of Appeal’s ruling that acquitted and cleared Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa in the ambulance procurement case.

    In a Notice of Appeal filed on August 8, 2024, the AG argued that the majority decision incorrectly applied the standard of proof required to determine whether the accused should have been called to defend themselves.

    The appeal also challenges the majority’s conclusion that the letters of credit did not constitute payment under the contract, arguing that this finding contradicts the evidence presented and is unsupportable.

    Furthermore, the appeal criticizes the majority’s ruling that the Ministry of Health was to blame for the financial loss, claiming it contained significant errors and led to a serious miscarriage of justice.

    The Attorney General is requesting that the Supreme Court overturn the acquittal and discharge, and order the accused to proceed with their defence.

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  • Sammy Gyamfi accuses AG of causing financial loss to the state

    Sammy Gyamfi accuses AG of causing financial loss to the state

    National Communications Officer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Sammy Gyamfi, has accused Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame of inflicting substantial financial loss on the state through his management of the ambulance case.

    Mr. Gyamfi claims that the Attorney General’s primary focus in the case should have been recovering the allegedly lost funds. Instead, he argues that Mr. Yeboah Dame prioritized the prosecution of the first accused, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.

    In an interview on Joy FM’s Newsfile, Mr. Gyamfi highlighted that a third party, Big Sea, had initially offered to pay €2 million of the €2.37 million in dispute. However, the Attorney General rejected this offer. According to Gyamfi, this rejection reveals the true intent behind the case.

    “It is clear that Attorney General Godfred Yeboah Dame has occasioned a huge financial loss to the state, because any prosecutor who is prosecuting an offence of willfully causing financial loss to the state, your number one goal ought to be the possible recovery of the loss you alleged has been occasioned,” Gyamfi stated.

    He continued, “So if a third party says ‘without prejudice to the rights of any of the accused, this matter can impact my reputation so I want to pay this money to you,’ your first inclination is to accept that offer. But you see, because the objective of going after Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson was persecution and not prosecution, he was not interested in the recovery of the money.”

    Gyamfi also recounted how Richard Jakpa, the third accused, supported Big Sea’s offer and sought to negotiate a plea bargain, but these attempts were repeatedly dismissed by the Attorney General.

    “Jakpa writes to say, we are adopting the offer, and again AG rejected it claiming the terms are not acceptable. And Jakpa writes again to amend the terms to make it more favourable and Godfred Dame says he is not interested,” Gyamfi explained. “And his reason was that ‘until you convince Ato Forson to join this plea bargain, I am not accepting it.’”

    With the case recently dismissed by the Court of Appeal, Gyamfi believes the Attorney General’s refusal to accept the plea deal resulted in a financial loss for the state and displayed a clear bias against Dr. Forson rather than a genuine effort to address the financial issue.

    “We can confidently say that the person they were targeting was Dr. Forson,” Gyamfi concluded.

  • For the sake of democracy, AG should appeal Ato Forson’s acquittal – Lawyer

    For the sake of democracy, AG should appeal Ato Forson’s acquittal – Lawyer

    Private legal practitioner, Bobby Banson, has advocated for the Attorney General to appeal the acquittal of Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa in the ambulance procurement trial, emphasizing the significance of such an action for democracy and the rule of law.

    Godfred Yeboah Dame, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, recently announced his intention to challenge the Court of Appeal’s verdict in the ambulance case, which exonerated the Minority Leader and the third accused on July 30.

    The Court of Appeal, in a 2:1 decision, overturned the trial court’s directive for the defendants to present their defense in the ongoing ambulance procurement trial. Justices Kweku Tawiah Ackah-Boafo and Philip Bright Mensah upheld the defendants’ no-case appeal, while Justice Alex Poku Acheampong dissented.

    The defendants had faced allegations of causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the state in an ambulance procurement deal for the Government of Ghana. Mr. Dame has argued that the court’s decision undermines efforts to combat impunity and uphold the rule of law, prompting his resolve to appeal the ruling.

    Speaking with Bernard Avle on the Point of View on Channel One TV, Banson stated, “For the sake of the law I would wish that AG appeal…They say there are some exceptions. It is only the Supreme Court that can tell us whether these exceptions are here or not, but I must be quick to add that even though the court of appeal ultimately upheld the appeal filed, it is not every submission that was made by the accused persons or the appellants that was upheld by Justice Ackah-Boafo.”

    He elaborated, “So for instance Justice Ackah-Boafo struck out almost all the grounds of appeal that was filed but ultimately rested the decision on the grounds of whether or not the submissions were supported by the evidence that was adduced…So it will be interesting to see if the AG indeed files the notice of appeal how it will go.”

    Banson’s remarks underline the importance of pursuing an appeal to ensure the integrity of legal processes and strengthen democratic principles in the country.

  • AG Dame sometimes forgets he is the Minister for Justice, behaving like NPP’s lawyer – Mahama

    AG Dame sometimes forgets he is the Minister for Justice, behaving like NPP’s lawyer – Mahama

    The 2024 flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama, has criticized the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General, Godfred Dame, accusing him of acting more like a legal representative for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) than fulfilling his duties impartially.

    Mahama emphasized the dual role of the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, suggesting that Dame forgets his responsibility to ensure fairness.

    “So I think that the A-G is also the Minister of Justice, he forgets that and thinks he is just the A-G. The Minister of Justice is supposed to ensure fairness. Anywhere else in this world, this case would have ended, he would never even have come to court,” he concluded.

    In an interview with TV3 on Tuesday, July 30, following the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit and discharge the accused in the ambulance procurement case, Mahama expressed his concerns about Dame’s credibility.

    “I think that this Attorney-General has been discredited enough, anywhere in the world, with the things we have seen, the coaching of witnesses, and discussions with witnesses, this prosecution would have been struck out as malicious prosecution,” he said.

    “I believe this prosecution is malicious. He is not as robust and energetic in pursuing other cases. Even as we speak, there is an ambulance case involving this present administration which is hugely larger than what he is prosecuting, and yet he has no interest in that.”

    Mahama further accused Dame of being overly enthusiastic in pursuing political opponents.

    “He is like a legal representative of the NPP party, over-enthusiastic in pursuing political opponents. I have said that when we come it will be the reverse. We will pursue accountability for the regime that has gone out but at the same time if any of our people are involved in the same things that have happened, we are prosecuting the previous government, and we will prosecute them too.”

  • Lawyer sues Police, AG over Akufo-Addo’s Deputy IGP appointment

    Lawyer sues Police, AG over Akufo-Addo’s Deputy IGP appointment

    A private lawyer has challenged the Attorney General (AG) and the Ghana Police Service (GPS) regarding the appointment of a Deputy Inspector General of Police (IGP).

    Mr Justice Abdulai argues that the selection of COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno is unconstitutional.

    He presented this argument in a legal document dated July 30, 2024.

    On July 17, President Akufo-Addo appointed Commissioner of Police (COP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno to the role of Deputy IGP, overseeing operations.

    But the lawyer is praying the court to restrain COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno “from acting or purporting to act as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of operations.”

    “A further order restraining the Inspector General of Police or any command under him from accepting, relating to and/or issuing instructions or commands to COP Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno in his assumed capacity as Deputy Inspector-General of Police in Charge of Operation.”

    The Jubilee House stated that the appointment was made based on the recommendations of the Police Council during its meeting today, which highlighted COP Yohuno’s outstanding qualifications and commitment to his role.

    WRIT TO INVOKE ORIGINAL JURISDICTION OF SUPREME COURT – JUSTICE ABDULAI v A.G & THE GHANA POLICE SERVICEDownload

    The statement characterized the Commissioner as a distinguished law enforcement professional with a career exceeding thirty years and significant experience in pivotal roles within the Service.

  • Ato Forson, Jakpa’s acquittal unfair to fight against abuse in public office – AG

    Ato Forson, Jakpa’s acquittal unfair to fight against abuse in public office – AG

    The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has criticized the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson and businessman Richard Jakpa, stating that it undermines the fight against abuse in public office.

    Ato Forson and Jakpa were accused of causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the state in a deal to purchase 200 ambulances between 2014 and 2016.

    The Court of Appeal ruled that the two had no case to answer, overturning the earlier High Court decision that required the trial to proceed, during which Jakpa, the third accused, had to call several witnesses.

    In a statement issued shortly after the ruling, Godfred Dame asserted that his office “considers the decision of the Court of Appeal to be perverse in the quest for public accountability and the rule of law. The decision clearly is heavily against the weight of the cogent evidence led by the prosecution in substantiation of all the charges against the accused persons at the trial.”

    Dame further elaborated on the ‘relevant facts of the matter’ and concluded that “The Office of the Attorney-General considers the decision of the Court of Appeal grossly unfair to the nation and inimical to the fight against impunity and abuse in public office. The Office will promptly file an appeal in order to erase the effect of this erroneous decision of the Court of Appeal.”

    Meanwhile, Cassiel Ato Forson has expressed his gratitude to God Almighty for his acquittal, marking the end of years of legal battles.

  • AG to ‘fight’ Appeal Court’s decision to acquit Ato Forson, Jakpa in Ambulance case

    AG to ‘fight’ Appeal Court’s decision to acquit Ato Forson, Jakpa in Ambulance case

    The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has announced his intention to appeal the 2:1 majority decision of the Court of Appeal that quashed the trial of Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson and businessman Richard Jakpa.

    The two were accused of causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the State in a deal to purchase 200 ambulances between 2014 and 2016.

    The Court of Appeal ruled that Ato Forson and Jakpa had no case to answer, overturning an earlier decision by the High Court that required the trial to proceed, during which Jakpa had called multiple witnesses.

    In a statement issued shortly after the ruling, Godfred Dame expressed strong disapproval, stating, “The decision of the Court of Appeal is perverse in the quest for public accountability and the rule of law. It is heavily against the weight of the cogent evidence presented by the prosecution to substantiate all charges against the accused persons.”

    The Attorney General detailed the “relevant facts of the matter” and concluded, “The Office of the Attorney-General considers the decision of the Court of Appeal grossly unfair to the nation and detrimental to the fight against impunity and abuse in public office. The Office will promptly file an appeal to overturn this erroneous decision.”

    Meanwhile, Ato Forson has expressed gratitude to God, celebrating his newfound freedom after years of legal battles.

  • Expedite investigation into Ahmed Suale murder – GJA tells AG

    Expedite investigation into Ahmed Suale murder – GJA tells AG

    President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has urged the Attorney General (AG) to expedite proceedings in the Ahmed Suale case, which has faced delays over the years.

    “We also wish to use this platform to appeal to the Attorney General to start expediting action on the Ahmed Suale murder case, a single issue that keeps affecting the position of the media on the Word Press Freedom Index” the president appealed.

    Ahmed Suale,who worked as an investigative journalist with Tiger Eye Private Investigations, a team led by renowned journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas Suale was tragically murdered on January 16, 2019 

    He was shot three times, twice in the chest and one in the neck by unidentified assailants while driving in his car in Madina-Accra. 

    This appeal follows a recent attack on three journalists, prompting a media blackout on certain political figures, including Fisheries Minister, Hawa Koomson.

    The incident that triggered this response involved the assault of David Kobbena, a journalist from Cape FM, by individuals allegedly linked to Koomson. Kobbena was attacked at the Central Regional Coordinating Council while covering a political event. 

    He was mistaken for another journalist who had allegedly insulted Koomson on a TV panel. Despite showing his press card to clarify his identity, he was physically assaulted by a group of about fifteen individuals.

    Following this incident, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) declared a media blackout on Hawa Koomson, urging all media houses to avoid covering her activities. 

    Consequently, speaking at GJA’s 75th Anniversary Lecture in Ho, yesterday, July 11 Mr. Dwumfour asserted that the association will continue to pressure state authorities to secure justice for Ahmed Suale.

    “In 2024 alone, the GJA imposed a media blackout on key state personalities due to attacks on three journalists while they were on duty. Let me use this anniversary lecture to call on the government and authority to intensify its collaboration with the GJA in ensuring the safety and security of journalists in Ghana

    “Five years have passed since the murder of the investigative journalist, yet there appears to be no progress. As an association, we shall continue to put pressure on state authorities to demand justice for Ahmed Suale” he added.

    The GJA president highlighted the importance of public support for the media and encouraged anyone with information regarding the Ahmed Suale case to assist the police investigation.

    “I also want to urge anyone with information about those responsible for this matter to help the police investigate this case. The media cannot thrive without the support of the public. As a result, we call for collaboration in this regard as we work to address our developmental challenges.”

  • AG wins $915m Eni & Vitol case as International Arbitration Tribunal rejects claims

    AG wins $915m Eni & Vitol case as International Arbitration Tribunal rejects claims

    The International Arbitration Tribunal has delivered a final verdict in the high-profile case involving Eni & Vitol versus Ghana and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), marking a significant legal victory for Ghana.

    The Tribunal’s decision, which favors Ghana, denies Eni and Vitol their claims for monetary damages and dismisses all allegations against GNPC.

    Initially, Eni and Vitol sought damages amounting to $7 billion, a figure that was later reduced to $915 million plus interest as proceedings progressed. However, the Tribunal’s final award denied these monetary claims entirely, providing a substantial relief to Ghana from a potential financial burden.

    In addition to rejecting the monetary claims, the Tribunal dismissed all claims against GNPC. The Tribunal also refused the Claimants’ request to declare that Ghana had breached the Petroleum Agreement by not withdrawing or preventing reliance on the Unitisation Directives by third parties.

    Furthermore, the Tribunal rejected the Claimants’ demand for Ghana to inform the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court that the Unitisation Directives were issued in violation of the Petroleum Agreement.

    Nonetheless, the Tribunal acknowledged that the Unitisation Directives, “in the circumstances in which they were issued,” did breach the Petroleum Agreement.

    Specifically, the directives were found to be contrary to applicable regulations, violating Article 26(2) of the Agreement. Despite this, the Tribunal upheld Ghana’s sovereign right to unitise oil fields to ensure efficient exploitation of oil deposits.

    Regarding legal fees and costs, the Tribunal decided that since both parties had partial victories, each would bear their own legal expenses.

    Reacting to the award, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice Godfred Yeboah Dame expressed a mix of satisfaction and caution.

    He noted that while he would have preferred a complete dismissal of all claims against Ghana, he was pleased with the Tribunal’s rejection of the claims and the dismissal of all monetary compensation demands by Eni and Vitol. This outcome spares Ghana a significant financial obligation.

    Attorney-General Dame also welcomed the Tribunal’s affirmation of Ghana’s sovereign right to unitise its oil fields. He stressed that while the principle of unitisation itself is not unlawful, the process must comply with applicable regulations, a point the Tribunal found lacking in this dispute.

    Looking forward, the Attorney-General emphasized the importance of determining the best path forward for all parties involved.

    He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to vigorously contesting all international arbitration claims aimed at imposing judgment debts on the country. Recent victories against Beijing Everyway, Cassius Mining, and Messrs Micheletti Company Limited highlight this resolve.

  • The Judiciary is better placed to justify an enhanced Supreme Court – AG tells NDC

    The Judiciary is better placed to justify an enhanced Supreme Court – AG tells NDC

    Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has firmly dismissed allegations from the National Democratic Congress (NDC) that President Nana Akufo-Addo is strategically appointing judges to the Supreme Court who are sympathetic to the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

    The AG addressed these claims during an interview at the United States Independence Day Event held at the Embassy Garden in Accra.

    The NDC, in a statement released on Thursday, July 4, accused President Akufo-Addo and the Chief Justice of colluding to appoint judges who would protect current government officials from future accountability.

    The opposition party contended that the Judicial Council had unanimously resisted the elevation of five judges to the Supreme Court, only to be overridden by the Chief Justice and the President in a covert manner.

    Fiifi Kwetey, the NDC’s General Secretary, expressed serious concerns over the nominations, asserting that the move to appoint five new judges to the highest court appeared unjust and warranted strong opposition.

    In response, Attorney General Dame refuted these accusations, emphasizing that the nominations were made at the request of the Chief Justice based on the operational needs of the judiciary. He underscored the legitimacy and necessity of these appointments.

    “What I am aware of is the request from the Chief Justice, and there is no malice in that. The Judiciary is undoubtedly better placed to provide ample justification for an enhanced Supreme Court,” Dame stated. “It is also important to note that the Supreme Court of Ghana is quite unique.”

    The AG’s comments aim to reassure the public and counter the narrative presented by the NDC. He stressed that the appointments were made transparently and in the best interest of the judicial system, not to serve any political agenda.

  • Atta Mills’ 2009 SONA was the inspiration behind the idea of procuring ambulances – Jakpa

    Atta Mills’ 2009 SONA was the inspiration behind the idea of procuring ambulances – Jakpa

    Ghanaian entrepreneur Richard Jakpa has disclosed the origins of the government’s ambulance procurement, which has sparked controversy and legal proceedings. The Attorney General has alleged that Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson caused financial loss amounting to 2.3 million Euros through the purchase of allegedly sub-standard ambulances, with Mr. Jakpa being the third accused in the case.

    Mr. Jakpa has countered these claims, accusing the Attorney General of conducting a witch-hunt against Dr. Forson. In an interview with JoyNews’ Elton Brobbey on ‘The Pulse’, Mr. Jakpa detailed the steps leading to his involvement with Big Sea Company Limited to facilitate the deal on behalf of the government.

    According to him, “the blueprint, everything emanated from me because I am an entrepreneur.

    “The first State of the Nation Address (SONA) by Atta Mills, spoke about the lack of ambulances in the country. And it was serious and that was one of his priorities. So as soon as I heard it, as an entrepreneur, I immediately put the team together and tasked them to go across the country to find out the state of ambulances.

    “They went round, they spent some time and we realised we had about 34 ambulances or so in the country. And that was serious. So we put together a proposal,” he said.

    He said he contacted his bank at the time and secured suitable financial arrangements and then proceeded to present the proposal to secure ambulances for the Health Ministry which included a loan facility.

    “And luckily for me, I was able to convince the bank. They sought approval from the underwriters in South Africa. It was approved and then they ring-fenced the 15.8 million euros for this project. And gave me the term sheets. They signed it nice, it was signed.

    So I attached it to the proposal, and then wrote officially to the Ministry of Health… Their own is a technical specification of the ambulance but the financial term sheet is not within their domain, it’s for the Minister of Finance.

    “So, therefore, they sent the whole document to the Minister of Finance and they copied my company that the health [Ministry] was interested because it wasn’t going to be a burden on the budget. It will be three years to pay and there’s even a moratorium, so it was easy for them.

    So as soon as they copied my company, then I realized that the government was interested, health was interested and they only wanted Finance advice on term sheets, which falls under the domain of finance. So as soon as we got a letter we said okay, then we’re in business. We started scouting out for manufacturers, who had our technical specification,” he explained.

    Following this initial phase, Mr. Jakpa’s exploration led him to Big Sea Company Limited, where negotiations were finalized in 2011.

    He explained that while he initially became Big Sea’s agent in Ghana, their attention to detail eventually led them to engage Jakpa@Business for all their operations across West Africa, except Nigeria.

  • AG denied Jakpa’s claim of ambulances arriving in 2015

    AG denied Jakpa’s claim of ambulances arriving in 2015

    The Accra High Court witnessed heated exchanges as Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame and Richard Jakpa engaged in a contentious cross-examination regarding the arrival date of ambulances central to an ongoing trial.

    AG Dame asserted that the first consignment of ambulances arrived in Ghana in December 2014, a claim supported by Exhibit AE, a letter from former Health Minister Alex Segbefia.

    This document highlighted concerns over the suitability of the initial ambulances for their intended use upon delivery.

    Jakpa vehemently contested AG Dame’s assertion, maintaining that the ambulances did not reach Ghana until 2015. He questioned the accuracy of Segbefia’s timeline, suggesting discrepancies in the minister’s account.

    AG Dame countered Jakpa’s defense with Exhibit AC, a letter from Big Sea LLC to the Health Minister, aligning with Segbefia’s delivery timeline. It was revealed that Big Sea obtained ISO certification for ambulance conversions in April 2015, implying potential procedural oversights during the procurement process.

    Isaac Wilberforce Mensah, spokesperson for the Attorney-General’s Office, highlighted these discrepancies as indicative of lapses in the ambulance acquisition process, urging scrutiny into regulatory compliance and delivery timelines.

    Jakpa defended the condition of the ambulances upon arrival, refuting claims of their unsuitability for conversion. He argued that any challenges arose from subsequent handling rather than inherent defects in the vehicles.

  • LIVESTREAMING: Cross-examination of Jakpa in ambulance trial continues

    LIVESTREAMING: Cross-examination of Jakpa in ambulance trial continues

    The prosecution in the ongoing ambulance procurement trial is expected to conclude the cross-examination of Richard Jakpa, the third accused, today.

    This will mark the fourth session in which Mr. Jakpa has faced questions from the prosecution.

    Mr. Jakpa has already been cross-examined by three different state attorneys, who have focused on his personal involvement and the role of his business, Jakpa@Business Ltd., in the transaction that prosecutors allege has cost the state approximately €2.37 million.

  • Highlights from Day 3 of cross-examination in ambulance case

    Highlights from Day 3 of cross-examination in ambulance case

    Day 3 of the ongoing cross-examination in the high-profile ambulance procurement trial brought forth a series of compelling developments, underscoring the intricacies of the legal battle and the gravity of the accusations faced by Richard Jakpa, the third accused.

    The proceedings on June 27, 2024, were marked by heightened tension and rigorous exchanges as new prosecutors took the stand to interrogate Jakpa, adding layers of complexity to an already charged courtroom atmosphere.

    Confrontation by Dual Prosecutors

    One of the standout moments of the day was Jakpa being confronted successively by two prosecutors. Initially cross-examined by Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, the session delved into Jakpa’s military background and the circumstances of his departure from the Armed Forces in 2007. A pivotal moment arose when the prosecution introduced what they claimed to be a crucial dismissal letter, alleging unsatisfactory conduct.

    Despite objections from the defense, the court ultimately admitted the letter as evidence, citing legal provisions related to personal knowledge and official records. Jakpa, however, vehemently denied familiarity with the document, challenging its authenticity during and after the proceedings.

    Dame’s Intensive Inquiry

    Later in the day, Attorney-General Godfred Dame took charge of the prosecution, intensifying the scrutiny on Jakpa regarding critical aspects of the case. Focus shifted to the authorization of Letters of Credit (LCs) between the Government of Ghana and Big Sea, a pivotal point aimed at establishing Jakpa’s alleged involvement as a primary beneficiary in the controversial contract.

    The cross-examination also delved into the specifics of Big Sea’s International Standard Organization (ISO) certification status, with conflicting interpretations emerging between Jakpa and the prosecution. The Attorney-General’s line of questioning sought to clarify discrepancies and bolster the prosecution’s case with concrete evidence.

    Ethical Allegations and Security Measures

    Amidst the legal drama, Jakpa made startling allegations against Attorney-General Dame, accusing him of coercing Jakpa into fabricating a medical excuse to evade court appearances. Jakpa asserted that despite his good health, he was pressured by Dame to obtain a false medical exemption, ostensibly to manipulate legal proceedings in favor of the prosecution.

    The courtroom atmosphere was further heightened by tightened security measures. Reports indicated an increased presence of National Security operatives alongside regular police details, responding to concerns over the unauthorized dissemination of court proceedings recordings on social media platforms like WhatsApp.

    Conclusion

    As the trial progresses, each day unfolds with new revelations and challenges, highlighting the complexity and significance of the allegations surrounding the ambulance procurement scandal. With each session, the legal teams strive to unravel the truth amidst allegations of misconduct, strategic maneuvers, and the pursuit of justice in a case that has captured national attention.

    The next steps in the trial remain critical, as stakeholders and the public await further developments that could potentially reshape the landscape of Ghana’s legal and political spheres.

  • ICC dismisses Micheletti International’s arbitration against Ghana

    ICC dismisses Micheletti International’s arbitration against Ghana

    The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) has dismissed an international arbitration instituted by Micheletti Company Limited against the Government of Ghana in May 2023 claiming damages for breach of contract relating to the rehabilitation of the of the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium in Accra.

    The ICC Tribunal composed of Sadaff Habib (President), Shadrack Arhin and Justin Amenuvor (Members) in its partial award on jurisdiction, upheld the contention of the Attorney-General of Ghana that the arbitration proceedings was statute-barred as it had been instituted out of the time allowed by the Limitations Act of Ghana.

    History of Case

    In April 2006 the Respondent, the Government of Ghana, executed an agreement with Waterville Holdings (BVI) Limited for the rehabilitation of a forty thousand seating capacity of a number of sports stadia in the country (the “Project”) in preparation for the 2008 African Nations Cup. These stadia included the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium, the El-Wak Stadium both in Accra, and the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, Ghana.

    Under the Agreement, the Claimant Micheletti, was the local sub-contractor for the rehabilitation of the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium in Accra, while Consar Limited was the local sub-contractor for the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. On 1st August 2006 however, the Government terminated the Agreement with the Contractor on the basis that the Agreement had not received approval from Cabinet.

    The Government subsequently entered into negotiations with the sub-contractors, Micheletti Co. Ltd (the Claimant) and Consar Ltd., to continue with the rehabilitation of the stadia.

    The value of the work undertaken by the Contractor was duly certifified and the Government of Ghana subsequently paid for all the work certified as having been discharged.

    The arbitration proceedings instituted in 2023 were in respect of claims by Micheletti that had allegedly not been honoured by the Government.

    Micheletti claimed among others, special damages for the default of the Government of Ghana, the sum of US$ 400,000.00, interest on the said sum from February, 2009, at the current Bank of Ghana forex rate plus 3% point till date of final payment and administrative fees and Arbitral cost.

    Arbitral Proceedings

    Whilst denying liability for any indebtedness, the Office of the Attorney-General raised a preliminary legal objection in accordance with article 5(1) of the ICC Rules of Arbitration.

    Assistant State Attorney, Ms. Anne-Marie Ayanru contended that the Claimant had not exhausted the dispute resolution mechanisms procedure applicable under the FIDIC General Conditions of Contract, which required the Parties to submit any dispute arising to a Dispute Adjudication Board (DAB) at first instance, and therefore, the Tribunal had no jurisdiction to determine the claim by Micheletti.

    Further, Ghana argued that even if the Tribunal were to find that it had jurisdiction, the Claimant’s claim having been filed more than 14 years after the cause of action arose, was statute-barred under Ghanaian law, which is the substantive law of the Agreement.

    The right of the Claimant to initiate any dispute resolution mechanism for a matter bordering on breach of contract, according to the Attorney-General, could only be enforced within a six-year period after accrual of the cause of action which occurred on 19th May, 2009.

    The Tribunal agreed to a bifurcation of issues, which allowed a determination of the preliminary objection and the claim of the action being statute barred, first. Consequently, the parties filed full arguments in respect of the preliminary issues raised by the Government of Ghana.

    The Award

    Delivering its award on the legal objections by Ghana, the ICC found that it had jurisdiction to hear the matter because the Claimant had taken steps to notify the Respondent of its intention to refer the dispute to a dispute adjudication board before commencing the arbitration proceedings, but such steps were ignored by the Respondent.

    The Tribunal however agreed with the Government of Ghana that the action was statute-barred under Ghanaian law, having been instituted way beyond 2015, i.e. more than 6 years allowed by Ghana’s Limitation Act.

    This made the claim inadmissible. The Tribunal therefore proceeded to dismiss the claims by Micheletti entirely.

    The Tribunal is currently considering submissions by the parties on the amount of costs to award in favour of the Government following the dismissal of the claim and will soon decide the question of the quantum of costs.

    DOC-20240315-WA0003_240318_130033Download
  • Full WhatsApp chats between Jakpa and AG admitted into evidence by court

    Full WhatsApp chats between Jakpa and AG admitted into evidence by court

    The High Court in Accra has admitted into evidence the complete WhatsApp messages exchanged between Richard Jakpa, the third accused, and Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame.

    This decision was announced by trial judge Justice Afia Serwaa Asare-Botwe, who underscored that the court had previously admitted portions of the WhatsApp chats from the third accused and could not reject what the prosecution termed as the entire conversation.

    Justice Asare-Botwe emphasized that while the court has admitted the full messages, it retains the discretion to assess the weight and relevance of this evidence.

    This point was particularly pertinent as the defense raised concerns over the authenticity and completeness of the messages presented by the prosecution.

    During the court proceedings on Tuesday, June 18, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa highlighted the volume of messages sent by Mr. Jakpa compared to the limited responses from the Attorney-General.

    The DPP argued for the admission of all of Mr. Jakpa’s WhatsApp messages to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the communications between the parties involved.

    Mr. Jakpa, under cross-examination, admitted that he had initiated contact with the Attorney-General prior to the trial. He disclosed that he obtained Mr. Dame’s contact information through his cousin, Supreme Court Judge Justice Yonny Kulendi.

    However, he also acknowledged that the messages presented in court did not encompass the entire conversation and were selectively chosen based on their relevance to his defense.

    Counsel for Mr. Jakpa, Mr. Thaddeus Sory, raised objections to the DPP’s motion to submit the full WhatsApp conversation into evidence. He argued that the defense required additional time to thoroughly review the messages to ensure their accuracy and context.

    Despite these objections, the court ruled in favor of admitting the full set of messages, reinforcing the importance of transparency and comprehensive evidence in the trial.

    This ruling has introduced a new dimension to the high-profile case, as the court now has access to the complete communication between Mr. Jakpa and the Attorney-General.

  • Jakpa admits recorded AG audio was doctored

    Jakpa admits recorded AG audio was doctored

    Third accused in the ambulance case, Richard Jakpa, has admitted that the audio recording of his conversation with the Attorney General (AG), which is in circulation and was presented as evidence, is doctored.

    He confirmed in open court that the recording, submitted by the accused as Exhibit 10, does not capture the full conversation.

    Jakpa stated that only the parts of the conversation that would support their case were included.

    Earlier, the Court had admitted an audio recording into evidence, capturing a conversation between Godfred Dame and Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the case.

    Dr. Ato Forson, the current Minority Leader in Parliament, and businessman Richard Jakpa face allegations of deliberately causing financial loss to the state amounting to 2.37 million euros through the procurement of ambulances.

    Both have pleaded not guilty and are currently awaiting trial.

    Mr. Jakpa is expected to endure a thorough examination from the Prosecution, anticipated to last at least five hours, in accordance with the Case Management Completion plan.

    Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal filed by the legal representative of Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, against an Accra High Court’s decision to dismiss an application for mistrial in the ambulance trial.

    Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, presiding over the ambulance trial, ruled that the application filed by former Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson was not tenable.

  • Ambulance case: Appiah-Kubi confident the AG will recuse himself in the coming days

    Ambulance case: Appiah-Kubi confident the AG will recuse himself in the coming days

    Member of Parliament for the Asante Akim-North Constituency, Andy Appiah-Kubi, expressed confidence that Attorney-General (AG) and Minister of Justice Godfred Dame would heed the trial judge’s advice and step aside from the ambulance purchase trial.

    During the court proceedings on Tuesday and Thursday, Attorney-General Godfred Dame was absent.

    However, Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah-Yeboah, present in court on Thursday, declined to confirm whether the Attorney-General had complied with the judge’s strong recommendation to stay away from the case.

    Justice Efia Serwah Asare-Botwey, the trial judge, strongly advised Attorney-General Godfred Dame to recuse himself from the ongoing case in the interest of justice and public perception.

    After the court ruling on Thursday, June 6, Attorney-General Godfred Dame, speaking to reporters, disregarded the judge’s advice and indicated his intention to continue prosecuting the case.

    However, NPP lawmaker Andy Appiah-Kubi, speaking on The Key Points on Saturday, June 15, emphasised that the Attorney-General should have recused himself even before receiving the judge’s advice.

    He argued that due to Mr. Dame’s dual role as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, his continued involvement in the case could be viewed as being a judge in his own case.

    “This is a criminal trial and knowing yourself as not only the Attorney-General but Minister of Justice… I’m sure you don’t want to be a judge in your own court,” he said.

    The Asante Akim-North lawmaker also expressed satisfaction with the trial judge’s advice to the A-G, saying, “That is what any good judge will do.”

    He continued, “Indeed, he [Godfred Dame] should not have waited for the judge to advise him to do that. Once you are in a case like that and you have been singled out for the decisions of the court, then it means that you are not as competent as you were before.”

    “The best thing for him to have done and I’m sure that the Attorney-General will heed this advice and I’m grateful that the judge also gave the advice.

    “In fact, I would have been grateful at that point in time to come to court and say that because of the proceedings, the way the evidence is coming the implications that are bringing me into the matter in person, I recuse myself and then let somebody else come and continue.

    “I would have done that but all be it that he didn’t do it and the judge called his attention to it… I am positive he will adhere to that advice and recuse himself,” he stated.

    Additionally, Mr Appiah-Kubi criticised the Deputy Attorney-General about his comments on the significance or otherwise of the admissibility of the leaked audio recording between the third accused Richard Jakpa and Godfred Dame.

    He described the comments as “unnecessary”, stressing that the admissibility of evidence is based on its relevance; if the trial judge thinks it is relevant, he or she is supported by law to admit it.

  • Leaked tape involving AG, Richard Jakpa admitted into evidence by court

    Leaked tape involving AG, Richard Jakpa admitted into evidence by court

    Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, the trial judge in the ongoing ambulance case, has admitted an audio recording involving the Attorney-General and businessman Richard Jakpa as evidence.

    The decision was made today, Thursday, June 13, following the mistrial application on June 6, 2024, where the recording was first introduced.

    Justice Asare-Botwe noted that the reasons for admitting the recording during the mistrial application still apply, emphasizing fairness in the trial process. She stated that the pendrive containing the recording has been admitted, as it would have been if presented by the prosecution.

    The controversy surrounding the recording began when lawyers representing Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson attempted to introduce it into evidence. The Attorney General objected, questioning its foundation and relevance.

    The audio recording, pivotal in the mistrial decision, is now being tendered again by defense lawyers, who argue that it is crucial to the charges of causing financial loss to the state against the Attorney General.

    Lead counsel for Dr. Forson, Dr. Aziz Bamba, emphasized that the recording pertains to the agreement between the Ghanaian government and a subsequent Letter of Credit. He argued that the Attorney General’s conduct in the recording amounts to oppression of the accused, undermining the trial process’s integrity.

    Dr. Bamba contended that the recording is relevant as it suggests the case was not pursued in good faith, pointing to procedural irregularities in the Attorney General’s handling of the matter.

    In response, the Attorney General argued against the recording’s admission, asserting that its relevance was not sufficiently supported. The AG referenced the trial judge’s previous dismissal of the mistrial application, which relied on the recording, as evidence of its limited relevance to the case.

    The AG further questioned whether the recording addresses the essential elements of the alleged financial loss to the state, arguing that it does not substantiate the charges against the accused.

    Despite these arguments, Justice Asare-Botwe disagreed with the Attorney General and admitted the recording into evidence.

  • Ambulance case: I see no reason why the AG has to recuse himself – Kweku Paintsil

    Ambulance case: I see no reason why the AG has to recuse himself – Kweku Paintsil

    A private legal practitioner has expressed disagreement with the advice given by High Court Judge Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, suggesting that Attorney General (AG) Godfred Dame should recuse himself from the ongoing ambulance procurement case.

    During an interview on JoyNews’ The Pulse on Thursday, June 6, Kweku Paintsil argued that there is no valid reason for the Attorney General to step down from the case.

    He stated, “An advice is an advice; you can take it or leave it. I don’t personally, with due respect, see any justification for the Attorney General to recuse himself from the case.”

    The lawyer’s comment comes after a sitting High Court Judge on Thursday advised the Attorney General to recuse himself from the ambulance procurement case involving Dr Cassiel Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa, citing allegations of professional and prosecutorial misconduct.

    But Mr Paintsil explained that the specific allegation made against the AG was dismissed by the judge, adding, “I am not too sure that it is going to have any impact on the substantive trial.

    Even if there is any such allegation that can be proven, it does not hold the substance of the matter before the judge. It is an issue of the conduct of the Attorney General which may be tried in a different forum.”

    According to Mr. Paintsil, if the judge has sufficient reasons to recuse the AG, she has the authority to do so. However, he noted that in this case, the judge does not have good reasons, hence the advice.

    Consequently, he believes the AG is not obliged to accept advice from a sitting judge.

    Nevertheless, he mentioned that if the AG decides to take the advice, that would be acceptable.

  • AG’s recusal from ambulance case unwarranted – Kweku Paintsil

    AG’s recusal from ambulance case unwarranted – Kweku Paintsil

    The High Court Judge Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe’s recommendation that the Attorney General, Godfred Dame, step down from the ambulance procurement case has been contested by a private attorney.

    During a Thursday, June 6, interview with the media, Kweku Paintsil contended that the Attorney General’s recusal is unwarranted.

    He stated, “An advice is an advice; you can take it or leave it. I don’t personally, with due respect, see any justification for the Attorney General to recuse himself from the case.”

    The attorney’s statement follows a recommendation from a presiding High Court Judge on Thursday for the Attorney General to abstain from involvement in the ambulance acquisition lawsuit, which involves Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa. The judge cited claims of professional and prosecutorial impropriety.

    However, Mr. Paintsil clarified that the judge dismissed the particular accusation against the Attorney General.

    “I am not too sure that it is going to have any impact on the substantive trial. Even if there is any such allegation that can be proven, it does not hold the substance of the matter before the judge. It is an issue of the conduct of the Attorney General which may be tried in a different forum.”

    As per Mr. Paintsil, if the judge has valid grounds to request the AG’s withdrawal, she holds the power to do so. Yet, he observed that in this instance, the judge lacks compelling reasons, thus the counsel.

    Therefore, he opines that the AG is not compelled to heed advice from a current judge. Nonetheless, he acknowledged that if the AG chooses to adhere to the counsel, it would be permissible.

  • Head of Thy Church Triumphant – AG’s victory song after court hearing

    Head of Thy Church Triumphant – AG’s victory song after court hearing

    Attorney-General (AG) Godfred Dame walked out of the courtroom in high spirits after a proceeding in the ongoing ambulance case trial.

    This comes after about five applications filed by the first accused person and the third accused, Dr. Ato Forson and businessman Richard Jakpa, respectively, were thrashed by the court.

    The applications are an order of inquiry into the conduct of the Attorney-General following the allegations made by Richard Jakpa to the effect that the A-G has been calling him at odd hours; an order of mistrial with the aim of terminating the case; a stay of proceedings until the application is determined; and a motion asking the court to strike out charges against the businessman.

    However, the court asserted that the GLC is the appropriate body to address the conduct of the Attorney General.

    In reaction to this, the AG asked how he anticipated the outcome of the case, and he began to sing a hymn titled Head of Thy Church Triumphant by Charles Wesley, which was a sign of his victory over his opponent and a vindication from all accusations levelled against him.

    “We joyfully adore Thee;
    Till Thou appear, Thy members here
    Shall sing like those in glory:
    We lift our hearts and voices…..” he sang.

    Adding that “the most important point in court today is that all the applications filed by the applicants have been dismissed in their entirety, all five applications have failed.

    And I think in reaction to this , it clearly shows that a group of people in this country who ride on the manipulation of facts, distortion and deception of the public, only seeking to mislead and deceive the public, have been exposed today.“

  • GPL: Young Apostles FC appreciate Godfred Dame after top-flight league promotion

    GPL: Young Apostles FC appreciate Godfred Dame after top-flight league promotion

    Young Apostles FC of Wenchi have secured promotion to the Ghana Premier League after defeating Techiman Heroes in a dramatic penalty shoot-out.

    The two teams faced off in a play-off to decide who would advance to the Ghana Premier League for the 2024–2025 season.

    Having emerged victorious in their respective Zone 1 groups, Young Apostles FC and Techiman Heroes had to compete in this decisive match.

    The regular time ended in a 1-1 draw at Accra Sports Stadium, and even after an additional 30 minutes of extra time, the teams remained deadlocked.

    The match was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, with the Young Apostles triumphing 4-3.

    The event was attended by Attorney General and Minister for Justice Godfred Yeboah Dame, a life patron of the Young Apostles, adding a special significance to the victory.

    Mr. Dame, a native of Wenchi, was enthusiastically supported from the stands as he witnessed the young talents of the team he has long been passionate about achieve such a historic victory.

    Following their triumphant match, the players joyfully visited Godfred Dame’s office to present the trophy and thank him for his support.

    In response, Godfred Dame expressed his gratitude for their thoughtful gesture.

    Celebrating his birthday the day after the team’s victory, the Attorney General remarked that their win was the best birthday gift he could imagine.

  • Jakpa didn’t manufacture the tape – Franklin Cudjoe

    Jakpa didn’t manufacture the tape – Franklin Cudjoe

    IMANI Africa’s founder and president, Franklin Cudjoe, has indicated a greater level of trust in Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ambulance trial, over the Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame.

    According to him, he is more inclined to believe the allegations made by Jakpa against Dame because he believes the leaked tape recording of Jakpa’s conversation with the AG was not manipulated or manufactured by Jakpa.

    While speaking on Citi TV’s ‘Big Issue’ program, Franklin Cudjoe conveyed his unwavering belief in Mr. Jakpa’s claim that President Akufo-Addo and the former finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta, applied pressure on the Attorney General to secure Ato Forson’s conviction in the ambulance trial.

    “I have said that this case is very stupid, excuse my language, a political case. What was the point? You could see that it was clearly his intent.

    I’m hearing that he said to Jakpa that the former finance minister, Ken Ofori-Atta and President Akufo-Addo, are pressuring him and he has to do something, hell no. I believe this story 100%,” myjoyonline.com quoted him to have said in the interview on Citi TV.

    “I don’t think Jakpa manufactured the tape. Jakpa is not a stupid man. I’m tempted to believe Jakpa more than the Attorney General right now, there’s nothing that the AG will say that I will believe him ever again.

    At this juncture, Jakpa rules. Jakpa might have asked at a point why are you determined to jail this guy [Ato Forson],” Franklin Cudjoe said.

    Meanwhile, Franklin Cudjoe has also called for the dismissal of Attorney General Godfred Dame following the release of the controversial audio recording.

    In a post on social media, Cudjoe expressed his regret for previously defending the Attorney General and called for his resignation.

    “And I am sorry. I was wrong about AG’s inability to do what he has been accused of. Nipa yɛ cobra. He must go,” Cudjoe posted.

    He further stated, “I was right about the AG. Ato Forson’s trial was political.”

  • Justice Kulendi’s home: My meeting with Jakpa was only by accident – AG in court filing

    Justice Kulendi’s home: My meeting with Jakpa was only by accident – AG in court filing

    Attorney-General (AG) Godfred Yeboah Dame, through his legal counsel, has filed documents at the High Court opposing an application made by Richard Jakpa, an accused person in a high-profile financial crimes trial.

    Earlier this week, Jakpa, who is involved in the Ambulance Case, requested the court to dismiss the charges against him or stay proceedings.

    He accused the Attorney-General of unethical conduct, including attempts to coerce him into implicating Cassiel Ato Forson, the first accused in the trial.

    In his May 31, 2024, filings, A-G Dame thoroughly addressed Jakpa’s allegations, including claims of meetings held without Jakpa’s legal representation, as required by law.

    Paragraph 13 of the document, titled “Affidavit in Opposition to Motion for an Order Striking Out the Charges and Terminating the Proceedings or Alternatively Staying the Proceedings Against the Third Accused/Applicant,” discussed the involvement of a Supreme Court Justice in the meetings between Dame and Jakpa.

    Paragraph 14 described the May 23, 2024, incident where Jakpa publicly accused the Attorney-General of witness tampering as part of a broader manipulation of facts and untruths underlying his application.

    “That in specific response to paragraphs 13, 14, 15 and 16 of the affidavit in support, the Respondent says that the applicant again deliberately puts a spin on the facts surrounding the so called meeting with the Attorney-General.

    The Applicant knows, as has already been indicated by his counsel to the trial judge in chambers, that, it was his cousin, Yonny Kulendi JSC, who invited the Attorney-General to the distinguished Justice of the Supreme Court’s residence, an invitation the Attorney-General honoured out of respect, only for the Applicant to show up,” paragraph 15 read.

    The following paragraph clarified: “That the respondent says that the Attorney-General has never met the Applicant anywhere outside the courtroom, except in Kulendi JSC’s residence.”

    The Attorney-General’s stance aligns with that of his spokesperson, Wilberforce Mensah, and a report by the pro-government Asaase Radio.

    The report stated that the A-G had been “ambushed” by Jakpa while he (Dame) was at the home of Justice Yonny Kulendi.

    The A-G wants the application by Jakpa dismissed by the court describing it as “a desperate smokescreen set up” to “abort his legitimate prosecution for the role he played in causing colossal financial loss to the State.”