In the ongoing retrial of Gregory Afoko for the murder of New Patriotic Party’s Upper East Regional Chairman, Adams Mahama, the defence lawyers have made a compelling plea to the jury. They have urged the jury to return a verdict that is in "consonance with their conscience."
Citing the controversial verdict of the jury in the previous trial in April 2023, the defence lawyers emphasized the importance of the jury coming to court prepared. They urged the jury not to rely solely on their memory but to take notes of all proceedings in the case, stressing that memory alone may fail them.
The previous trial in April 2023 resulted in a hung jury with a 4-3 verdict in favor of Gregory Afoko on two counts of conspiracy and murder. This unclear verdict led to the order of the High Court for a retrial, highlighting the significance of a thorough and well-documented approach by the jury in the current proceedings.
During the recent court session on February 2, 2024, the Prosecution, led by Marina Appiah Opare, emphasized their intention to demonstrate why the accused are culpable of the offense. They indicated that, following an amendment to the current criminal offenses act, if found guilty, the accused persons would face life imprisonment.
Andrew Kudzo Vortia, Counsel for the 2nd Accused Asabke Alangde, reiterated the importance of the jury documenting all evidence presented in court. He emphasized that the jurors should come prepared to take notes of proceedings and not rely solely on their memory. Counsel stressed that the jurors' decision will significantly impact the lives of the accused and urged them to arrive at a decision that is fair and in line with their conscience.
This retrial marks the third time Gregory Afoko has faced charges for conspiracy for murder and murder. Asabke Alangde, who was earlier found guilty for conspiracy and subsequently sentenced to death, also pleaded not guilty to murder as both individuals face retrial.
The plea from the defence lawyers underscores the gravity of this retrial and highlights the need for a diligent and conscientious approach by the jury. The outcome of this trial will have far-reaching implications, and it is imperative that justice is served based on a thorough evaluation of the facts and in accordance with the jurors' conscience.
The significance of this case is underscored by its complex history, including a previous hung jury and subsequent retrial. It is evident that both the prosecution and defence are committed to presenting their cases comprehensively, and it is crucial for the jury to approach their duty with equal diligence.
As this retrial unfolds, it is essential for all involved parties to uphold the principles of fairness, justice, and conscientious deliberation. The outcome of this case will not only impact the lives of the accused but also carry broader implications for the pursuit of justice within the legal system.
The retrial continues to unfold, and it remains to be seen how the jury will weigh the evidence presented before them. As proceedings progress, it is imperative that all involved parties uphold the integrity of the legal process and ensure that a just and conscientious verdict is reached.
-source starrfm | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
