An Accra High Court will today, Thursday, June 13, 2024 rule on whether to admit an audio recording involving the Attorney-General and businessman Richard Jakpa as evidence in the ongoing ambulance procurement case.
The controversy began when lawyers representing Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson attempted to introduce the recording into evidence. The Attorney General objected, challenging the recording’s foundation and relevance.
Previously, the audio recording had been admitted and was pivotal in the trial judge’s decision regarding a mistrial on June 6, 2024. Defence lawyers are now tendering it again, arguing that it forms a crucial basis for the charges of causing financial loss to the state against the Attorney General.
Dr Aziz Bamba, lead counsel for Dr Forson, emphasized that the 16-minute recording pertains to the agreement between the Ghanaian government and a Letter of Credit issued thereafter. Dr. Bamba asserted that the Attorney General’s conduct in the recording amounts to oppression of the accused, suggesting it undermines the trial’s integrity. He contended that the audio recording is pertinent, indicating that the case was not pursued in good faith and alleging procedural irregularities in the Attorney General’s handling of the matter.
In response, the Attorney General argued against the recording’s admission, asserting that its relevance is insufficiently supported. The AG cited the trial judge’s previous dismissal of the mistrial application, which was primarily based on the recording, as evidence of its limited relevance to the case. Furthermore, the AG questioned whether the recording addresses the essential elements of the alleged financial loss to the state, arguing that it does not substantiate the charges against the accused.
The prosecution echoed these sentiments, additionally accusing Richard Jakpa of violating the Attorney General’s right to privacy by recording their conversation.
The court is expected to rule on the Attorney General’s objection today. Following this decision, the trial will resume to determine the next steps in this closely watched legal proceeding.
