In a recent development that has sent shockwaves through the farming community of Banka in the Asante Akyim District of the Ashanti Region, the Chief, Osabarima Twiampomah III, has been convicted of embezzling funds belonging to the community. The High Court in Accra found him guilty of stealing one hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) and subsequently sentenced him to three months in prison in addition to a fine of 2,000 penalty units, equivalent to GH¢24,000.
The conviction came after a full trial presided over by Justice Comfort K. Tasiame on July 23. The court made it clear that failure to pay the fine would result in a five-year prison sentence for the Chief.
The case dates back to 2010 when a gold mining company, Gulf Coast Resources Company Ltd, provided the aforementioned amount to the Banka community for corporate social responsibility obligations. However, it was revealed that the Chief had personally pocketed the funds instead of utilizing them for the community's development, as intended.
The prosecution, led by State Attorney Watkins Adamah, presented compelling evidence, including testimony from three witnesses, to support their case. Despite the accused initially pleading not guilty, the court ultimately found sufficient evidence to proceed with the trial.
It was revealed that the accused, acting on behalf of the community, had petitioned against the renewal of the mining company's lease due to their failure to fulfill corporate and social obligations. Subsequently, negotiations led to the company promising to pay $150,000 for the community's development in exchange for withdrawing the petition. However, the Chief failed to fulfill his duty to the community and instead claimed that the funds were for personal use.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability, especially in positions of leadership. The misappropriation of funds intended for community development not only undermines trust but also hinders the progress and well-being of the people.
The verdict sends a strong message that such misconduct will not be tolerated and highlights the need for ethical governance at all levels. It is a call for leaders to uphold their responsibilities with integrity and prioritize the welfare of their communities above personal gain.
As this chapter draws to a close with the Chief's conviction, it is hoped that the community of Banka can now move forward with renewed confidence in their leadership and a commitment to genuine progress and development.
-source Starrfm | curated by Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
