Ghana's Minority Leader Petitions Chief Justice for Live Broadcast of Ambulance Trial Amid Allegations

Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Ghana's Minority Leader, has petitioned Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo to allow a live broadcast of his ongoing Ambulance trial. This request was made following allegations that Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame had engaged a witness to provide false testimony against him.

The petition, submitted on May 30 by Dr. Forson's lawyers, comes in the wake of allegations made by Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the case. On May 23, Jakpa alleged during cross-examination that Attorney-General Dame had pressured him to testify falsely against Dr. Forson.

Dr. Forson is standing trial alongside businessman Richard Jakpa for allegedly causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the state in the purchase of ambulances in 2014. The case has attracted significant public interest, and Forson believes that a live broadcast would ensure transparency and accountability.

In their petition, Dr. Forson's lawyers stated, "We write to formally request the live broadcast of all subsequent court proceedings in the case of Republic vs. Cassiel Ato Forson & 2 Ors (Case No: CR/0198/2022). This request is made on behalf of our Client in the light of recent developments that have significantly impacted public perception of the case and the administration of justice."

Why this matters: The allegations of false testimony and interference in the judicial process have significant implications for the integrity of Ghana's justice system and the rule of law. If true, it could lead to a loss of public trust and undermine the credibility of the government and its institutions.

The allegations against Attorney-General Dame have intensified the public's interest in the trial. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has released a 16-minute recording that purportedly captures a conversation between Dame and Jakpa, in which Dame allegedly instructs Jakpa on what to say in court to incriminate Dr. Forson.

Dr. Forson argues that broadcasting the trial live would promote transparency and uphold the principles of open justice. He emphasized, *"The allegations against the Attorney-General are deeply concerning. If true, they represent a serious breach of public trust and a threat to the integrity of our judicial system. It is essential that these allegations be thoroughly investigated and that the public have the opportunity to witness the proceedings firsthand.

The NDC has called for the immediate resignation or dismissal of Attorney-General Dame, citing the need to restore the integrity of the Office of the Attorney General and the judicial system. However, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has dismissed these calls, arguing that the leaked tape was doctored.

The trial's progression hinges on the request for a live broadcast remaining a crucial issue. Dr. Forson's petition highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the judicial process, particularly in cases with significant public interest.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Ato Forson petitions Chief Justice for live broadcast of Ambulance trial.
• Allegations of false testimony and interference in judicial process made against Attorney-General.
• Live broadcast requested to ensure transparency and accountability in trial.
• NDC calls for Attorney-General's resignation, while NPP claims leaked tape is doctored.
• Live broadcast request crucial for trial's progression and public trust in justice system.