The state has officially withdrawn its appeal against the Court of Appeal’s ruling in the case involving Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and businessman Richard Jakpa.
The appeal filed by former Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Godfred Yeboah Dame sought to reverse the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit and discharge the Ajumako-Enyan-Esiam MP and businessman Richard Jakpa.
Dr. Ato Forson and Richard Jakpa, were on trial over an alleged financial loss to the state in the controversial €2.37 million ambulance procurement deal.
The Attorney General’s office accused the duo of causing financial loss through the importation of 30 defective ambulances for the National Ambulance Service. Prosecutors claimed that Dr. Forson authorized the letters of credit for the purchase without ensuring quality control and due diligence.
Despite the prosecution’s claims, the defense maintained that Dr Ato Forson acted within the scope of his official duties and bore no criminal liability for the transaction.
In July 2024, the Court of Appeal in a 2-1 majority decision subsequently acquitted and discharged Dr Ato Forson on the grounds that the prosecution handling the case did not establish a prima facie case for him to answer.
By: Ekow Annan/newsalertgh.com
