Ambulance case: AG advised to save himself

 

In a dramatic turn of events, the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has been advised to recuse himself from a high-stakes case involving a €2.37 million financial loss, currently unfolding at the High Court in Accra.

The recommendation came from Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe during the hearing on Thursday, June 6 ,2024. The judge stressed that removing the A-G from the case would help protect the integrity of the judicial process and bolster public confidence, ensuring that justice is perceived to be served solely within the courtroom.

Central to the judge's advice was a secret audio recording of a conversation between A-G Dame and Richard Jakpa, one of the accused in the ambulance case. The judge ruled that the contents of the recording was not related to the criminal proceedings. Specifically, she noted that Dame did not solicit Jakpa's help to strengthen the case against Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the primary accused.

Justice Asare-Botwe stated, "It is my considered view that it will be prudent to strongly advise the A-G not to be directly involved in the conduct of this case. This is one way of ensuring that the judicial process is protected and to gain public confidence and not give a perception that cases can be held at any other place except the court room."

However, the judge highlighted a portion of the audio where Dame suggested Jakpa seek a medical excuse, saying these matters fell under the General Legal Council's jurisdiction regarding lawyers' professional conduct.

Despite the ruling, Attorney-General Dame continued to lead the prosecution after the court session ended.

In an unrelated note, the case has drawn increased public scrutiny and media attention, adding pressure on the legal proceedings and the individuals involved. The coming days are expected to bring further developments as the trial progresses.