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Lawyers for Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson , the Minority Leader in Parliament and Member of Parliament for Ajumako Enyan Esiam Constituency, have requested the Chief Justice to grant full media access, including live broadcast, of the ongoing court proceedings in his trial.
In a letter dated May 30, 2024, Azizbamba & Associates, representing Dr. Forson, made this request, citing recent developments that have significantly impacted public perception of the case and the administration of justice.
Dr. Forson was arraigned before the High Court in Accra (Financial & Economic Division “2”) on January 17, 2022, charged with willfully causing financial loss to the Republic and intentionally misapplying public property. He pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The prosecution closed its case on February 14, 2023, and the court ruled that Dr. Forson and the other accused persons had a case to answer.
The lawyers argued that a live broadcast of the proceedings would ensure transparency and public accountability, helping to dispel misconceptions and misinformation about the case.
They referenced the trial court’s ruling on the submission of no case to answer, which placed the burden on Dr. Forson to provide evidence showing he had the authority to issue a request. They emphasized that the accused only needs to raise a reasonable doubt.
The lawyers urged the Chief Justice to approve their request to ensure the proceedings remain transparent and accessible to the public.
Source:Omanghana.com