Private legal practitioner Mr. Kofi Bekai has stated that the attorney general may have the option of heading back to court and appealing the six-month sentence handed to the son of Bishop Salifu Amoako in the accident case that claimed the lives of two persons.
He noted that the judge who presided over the matter cannot be faulted for the number of months he handed the minor in the matter since we have no knowledge of the circumstances and evidence submitted before her.
Some have expressed disappointment in the sentencing handed the minor, especially when two lives were lost in the matter.
But the lawyer explained that juvenile cases are different from cases involving adults who have offended the law.
Speaking on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM’s Frontline, Mr. Bekai praised the court for its prompt handling of the case.
He noted that while Ghanaians may have reservations about the issue, the most important thing is that what happened was legal. We have laws that govern cases involving both adults and juveniles. When I saw the report yesterday, I knew Ghanaians were going to be angry. However, we should be aware that because he is under the age of 18, the situation is sensitive. The evidence presented to the judge was sufficient to support the decision. The judge made a decision based on the evidence presented in court. He would also consider whether the minor was remorseful. He also cannot exaggerate the situation because the judge had access to and examined the evidence’.
He told host Kwabena Agyapong that “the judge did not err in law,” though Ghanaians may disagree with the outcome. The boy is a minor, and his punishment should not be excessive.
He added, “If the prosecutor believes the six-month sentence was too short, they can return to court to argue their cases and request more time.”
Mr. Kofi Bekai stated that Ghanaians expected the sentencing to be severe because two people died, but the judge reviewed all of the issues presented and issued the ruling, and if the Attorney General is dissatisfied, they can appeal so that the punishment be increased.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana