Anas Aremeyaw Anas, the renowned investigative journalist, has made it clear that revealing his identity to Kwasi Nyantakyi, the former president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), would pose a significant risk to his personal safety. Anas emphasized that disclosing his identity to the accused individuals would jeopardize his security and could essentially result in "signing his death warrant."
This assertion comes in the context of Anas' expected testimony as a witness against Nyantakyi, following the release of his documentary titled '#Number 12 Exposé.' The documentary uncovered instances of bribery and corruption within the realm of Ghanaian football, ultimately leading to Nyantakyi being banned by FIFA and subsequently facing charges.
Despite Nyantakyi pleading not guilty to the charges of fraud by agent and corruption in relation to Anas' #Number 12 Exposé, the trial has yet to commence since June 29, 2021, nearly three years after his plea.
The Principal State Attorney (PSA), Duffie Prempeh, informed the Court that Anas had expressed concerns about his personal safety and firmly stated that it would not be appropriate for him to disclose his identity to the accused individuals. Anas underscored the potential peril associated with revealing his identity, citing the tragic fate of his colleague, Ahmed Suale, who was fatally shot following an engagement with a law office. Additionally, Anas highlighted the withdrawal of state security as a contributing factor to his apprehensions.
In response to the Court's ruling that Anas would reveal the accused persons and their lawyers in the chambers of the Court before testifying in open Court while masked, the Prosecution has indicated that they are appealing this decision.
The trial proceedings have encountered further complications, with the defense counsel advocating for the criminal suit to be struck out due to alleged lack of prosecution readiness. The defense argued that despite numerous opportunities provided to the Prosecution to prepare their case, they have failed to do so effectively.
In light of these developments, Justice Marie-Louise Simmons, the presiding judge, has granted the Prosecution an extension until April to pursue their appeal. However, she made it clear that if no meaningful progress is made in the appeal process by April, the accused persons will be discharged.
While acknowledging that there should be no inhibition in striking out the case, Justice Simmons expressed reluctance to do so at this stage due to the pending appeal. She emphasized the importance of receiving a response from the Court of Appeal before making a definitive decision.
In summary, the trial involving Anas Aremeyaw Anas as a key witness against Kwasi Nyantakyi has encountered significant challenges related to concerns about witness safety and procedural delays. The Court has extended a deadline for the Prosecution to pursue their appeal, highlighting the need for meaningful progress in the coming months. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for both the individuals involved and the broader landscape of Ghanaian football.
-source starfm | curated by Aisha Yakubu | Ghana Crimes
