We are witnessing a significant development in the case of the murder of Eric Johnson, the former Chief Executive Officer of Royal Cosy Hills Hotel (Jirapa Dubai) in Jirapa. The High Court in Wa has decided to adjourn the case to 12th July 2024, citing the need for broader consultation on the possible transfer of the case from Wa to a High Court in Kumasi.
Justice Abdul Yusif Assibey, the supervising High Court Judge, has emphasized the importance of allowing Chief Justice Gertrude Tokornoo to conduct thorough consultations before making a decision on the potential transfer. This decision comes in light of numerous petitions received by the Chief Justice's office regarding the transfer of the case, prompting the need for careful consideration.
The Chief Justice's order for the transfer of the case to Kumasi has sparked concerns, particularly among the residents of the Upper West Region, especially Jirapa. There are apprehensions about the potential for a miscarriage of justice if the case is moved to Kumasi.
Legal representatives involved in the case have expressed differing views on the matter. Mr. Luanga Bagonluri, the lawyer for the second and third accused persons, has petitioned against the transfer, arguing that justice would be better served if the case remains in Wa. On the other hand, Mr. Clement Eledi, a lawyer for the first accused person, believes that justice could be well-served if the case is transferred to Kumasi.
Furthermore, Mr. Saeed Abdul Shakuur, Principal State Attorney in the Upper West Region, has raised valid concerns about the practical implications of transferring the case. He highlighted the logistical challenges and costs associated with transporting witnesses to and from Kumasi for court sittings, especially considering that all witnesses are currently based in the Upper West Region.
It is important to note that, according to Mr. Shakuur, per the laws of Ghana, only a Prosecutor or a State Attorney in a case can request a case to be transferred. These legal intricacies add another layer of complexity to the ongoing deliberations surrounding the case.
In response to these developments, Mr. Cletus Dapilah, the Member of Parliament for Jirapa Constituency, expressed dissatisfaction on behalf of the people of Jirapa regarding the handling of the case. He voiced concerns about the perceived lack of urgency and sensitivity in addressing such a serious matter.
Similarly, Dr. Alex Bokumah, a native of Jirapa, echoed these sentiments and highlighted the community's petition against the transfer of the case. He questioned the delay in reaching a decision and conveyed a sense of disillusionment with what is perceived as arbitrary use of power.
As we await further developments in this case, it is crucial to uphold the principles of justice and ensure that due process is followed. The implications of transferring such a high-profile case should be carefully weighed against the imperative of delivering fair and impartial justice.
We will continue to monitor this situation closely and provide updates as new information emerges.
-source citinewsroom | curated by Aisha Yakubu | GhanaCrimes
