In a recent development at the High Court in Accra, former Deputy Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Anthony Kwaku Boahen has been directed to be prepared to open his defense on May 30th in the absence of Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo.
Ofosu-Ampofo, the former National Chairman of the NDC, was expected to appear in court on April 25th to address the charges against him. However, his absence since November last year has been attributed to a "minor surgery" as informed by his legal representative, Tony Lithur.
The charges against Ofosu-Ampofo and Anthony Kwaku Boahen include an alleged conspiracy to cause harm to the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission and the Chairman of the Peace Council. Additionally, both individuals are separately facing a charge of assault on a public officer and have pleaded not guilty, being granted bail accordingly.
Despite Ofosu-Ampofo's absence, the Court has indicated that Boahen may proceed with opening his defense in the upcoming hearing. The Court has acknowledged the reports of medical treatment being received by Ofosu-Ampofo in the US and emphasized that hearing Boahen's defense in the absence of the first accused is within legal bounds.
In response to the prolonged adjournments due to the absence of Ofosu-Ampofo, the Court has set a final date for the hearing, cautioning that if he fails to appear, Boahen's defense will be heard. This decision aligns with the constitutional requirement that a matter be heard in the presence of an accused, as highlighted by Dr. Abdul Aziz Bamba, counsel for Anthony Kwaku Boahen.
The case, which has been ongoing since November 2023, has seen the Prosecution close its case after calling three witnesses. With the next hearing scheduled for May 30th, 2024, the legal proceedings surrounding this matter continue to unfold.
It is essential to note that these developments are subject to legal processes and considerations, and the outcome will be determined by the proceedings in accordance with the law. As such, it is imperative to await further updates as the case progresses.
-source Starrfm | curated by Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
