An Accra High Court has dismissed an application aimed at staying proceedings in the ongoing criminal trial of former National Signals Bureau (NSB) Director-General Kwabena Adu-Boahene.
Presiding judge Justice Francis Apangabuno Achibonga ordered the defence to proceed immediately with the cross-examination of the fourth prosecution witness, Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) investigator Frank Marshall Cromwell.
Lead counsel Samuel Atta Akyea had asked the court to halt the trial pending a Supreme Court review application filed by Ofoase-Ayirebi MP Kojo Oppong Nkrumah. That apex court motion challenges the legality of conducting criminal trials during the annual legal vacation.
Justice Achibonga threw out the request, ruling that the trial must proceed without delay.
Following the ruling, Mr Atta Akyea requested a day’s reprieve, explaining he had arrived unprepared and without case files after assuming the court would grant the stay.
“My Lord, I didn’t come today prepared, and even I didn’t bring my files,” counsel submitted.
Although noting counsel’s empty table, Justice Achibonga refused the adjournment.
The judge indicated the defence could either conclude cross-examination immediately or proceed using available materials. Left with no alternative, Mr Atta Akyea commenced questioning.
Kwabena Adu-Boahene, his wife Angela Adjei-Boateng, and two co-accused face 11 counts, including conspiracy, stealing, money laundering, causing financial loss to the state, and using public office for private profit.
The state alleges the group diverted and misappropriated GH¢49.1 million (about $7 million) intended for a state cybersecurity and defence system. All defendants deny the charges.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
