Ato Forson requests live broadcast of ambulance trial
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the primary defendant in the ongoing ambulance procurement trial, has directed his legal team to petition the Chief Justice for full media access, including live broadcasts of subsequent court proceedings.
In a letter from Azizbamba & Associates, Dr. Forson’s lawyers formally requested the Chief Justice to allow live broadcasts of the trial involving the Republic vs. Cassiel Ato Forson and others (Case No. CR/0198/2022).
The letter highlighted that recent developments have significantly impacted public perception of the case and the administration of justice.
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, a Member of Parliament for the Ajumako Enyam Esiam Constituency, was arraigned before the High Court on January 17, 2022, charged with willfully causing financial loss to the state and misapplying public property. He has pleaded not guilty. On February 14, 2023, the prosecution closed its case, and the court ruled that Dr. Forson and the other accused had a case to answer.
Dr. Forson’s legal team argued that he acted under the authority of the Minister of Finance, countering the prosecution’s claim that he acted without proper authorization.
The defense emphasized that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, while the accused only needs to raise reasonable doubt.
Dr. Forson’s request for live broadcasts follows recent allegations of misconduct against Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame.
The third accused, Richard Jakpa, alleged that Dame encouraged him to provide false testimony against Dr. Forson. Supporting these claims, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) released a 16-minute phone recording purportedly capturing a conversation between Dame and Jakpa, allegedly revealing coaching on incriminating Dr. Forson.
NDC Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, at a press conference on May 28, asserted that the recording exposed an attempt to manipulate Jakpa’s testimony. In response, Dr. Forson argued that broadcasting the trial live would ensure transparency and uphold the principles of open justice, allowing citizens to form informed opinions and hold participants accountable.
“In light of the recent exposé concerning the alleged misconduct of the Attorney-General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, I have instructed my lawyers to petition the Chief Justice for the live broadcast of all subsequent proceedings in the ambulance trial. This request is motivated by a deep commitment to transparency and open justice, principles fundamental to a fair and impartial legal system,” Dr. Forson posted on his Facebook page.
“The allegations against the Attorney-General are deeply concerning. If true, they represent a serious breach of public trust and a threat to the integrity of our judicial system. It is imperative that these allegations be thoroughly investigated and that the public be given the opportunity to witness the proceedings firsthand,” he added.
