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During today’s trial at the Accra High Court, one accused, Richard Jakpa, caused a disturbance, prompting Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe to reprimand him for disrespecting the court. Jakpa, a businessman, is currently facing trial alongside the Minority Leader, Dr.
Cassiel Ato Forson and another individual were accused of causing financial loss to the state in relation to the purchase of ambulances. Graphic Online’s Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson reports that Justice Asare-Botwe warned Jakpa about his behavior, emphasizing that any further disrespect would be met with the court’s powers of contempt. The judge expressed her concern over the media’s negative commentary about the courts, which contributes to the lack of respect shown by some individuals. While Jakpa’s lawyer apologized for his client’s actions, Jakpa himself later apologized to the judge.
During the proceedings, Jakpa requested permission to use the restroom, which was initially denied, but the judge later allowed him to use a restroom within the courtroom. Jakpa’s reaction to the judge’s gesture caused an uproar in the courtroom. The trial involves Dr. Forson, a former Deputy Minister of Finance, Sylvester Anemana, a former Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, and Jakpa, who have all pleaded not guilty to charges related to causing financial loss to the state. The facts presented in the trial describe the procurement process for the ambulances and allege defects in the delivered vehicles.
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Source:Omanghana.com
