We are witnessing a significant development in the ongoing trial of businessman Richard Jakpa and former Deputy Minister for Finance Cassiel Ato Forson. The High Court in Accra has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Richard Jakpa, who is a co-defendant in the case involving the purchase of ambulances deemed unfit for purpose.
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Mr. Jakpa, along with Dr. Ato Forson and Sylvester Anemana, a former Chief Director at the Ministry of Health, are facing trial for allegedly causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the state through a contract to purchase 200 ambulances for the Ministry of Health. The charges include wilfully causing financial loss to the state, abetment of crime, contravention of the Public Procurement Act, and intentionally misapplying public property.
During the recent court proceedings, Mr. Jakpa was expected to testify but failed to appear, citing a "purported" medical certificate as the reason for his absence. However, the court deemed the submitted medical certificate inadequate as it did not specify the medical condition for which he was reportedly seeking treatment. Furthermore, it was noted that Mr. Jakpa had recently dispensed with his legal representation and had not yet secured new counsel.
In light of these circumstances, Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, a Justice of the Court of Appeal sitting as an additional High Court judge, made the decision to issue a warrant for Mr. Jakpa's arrest. The case has been adjourned to March 26, 2024.
It is imperative to note that Mr. Jakpa's failure to appear in court and the subsequent issuance of a bench warrant underscore the gravity of the legal proceedings. The pursuit of justice in matters involving alleged financial misconduct is essential for upholding accountability and transparency within governmental transactions.
We will continue to monitor this case as it unfolds, and we trust that the legal process will ultimately serve to uphold the principles of integrity and responsibility within our public institutions.
-source Starrfm| curated by Tetteh Belinda | Ghana Crimes
