The Accra High Court's Criminal Division has postponed the trial of Mrs. Gifty Oware-Mensah, the former Deputy Executive Director of the National Service Scheme (NSS), to October 22, 2025. Mrs. Oware-Mensah faces multiple charges, including stealing, willfully causing financial loss to the state, using public office for profit, and money laundering.
The trial, originally scheduled to begin on Friday, October 17, 2025, was adjourned after her legal team informed the court that she was unwell and receiving treatment at the Police Hospital. Her lead counsel, Mr. Gary Nimako Marfo, presented a medical report confirming her condition and noted that she had been granted a two-day medical excuse.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mrs. Yvonne Atakora Obuobisa, did not oppose the request for adjournment but suggested that the court reschedule the trial for the following week to allow the accused sufficient time to recover. Presiding over the case, Her Ladyship Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay agreed and adjourned proceedings to October 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Mrs. Oware-Mensah is alleged to have misappropriated over GH¢31.5 million through a complex loan scheme during her time at the NSS. Prosecutors claim she exploited her position to unlawfully gain financial benefits, thereby causing significant losses to the state. The charges against her include stealing, willfully causing financial loss to the state, using public office for profit, and money laundering.
This highly anticipated trial is expected to uncover critical details about alleged financial irregularities within the National Service Scheme during Mrs. Oware-Mensah’s tenure. The case has drawn attention due to its implications for accountability and governance in public institutions.
As the proceedings resume later this month, stakeholders and observers will be keenly following developments to better understand the extent of the alleged misconduct and its impact on public resources.
