The Assistant Commissioner of Police (rtd), Benjamin Agordzo has boldly asserted that the justice system of Ghana has its fair share of injustices.
Dr. Agordzo was arrested and detained on counts of allegedly plotting to overthrow the government. ACP Benjamin Agordzo, the late Dr. Mac Palm, and eight others were arraigned in 2021 on counts of conspiracy to commit high treason.
However, Dr. Benjamin Agordzo has been freed. This was after he was found not guilty of the charge of abetment after a full trial.
Six others including military officers who were part of those facing trial were however found guilty for their respective roles and sentenced to death by hanging.
However, speaking on Morning Starr with Naa Dedei Tettey, Dr. Agordzo claimed that while the principle of “innocent until proven guilty’’ is theoretically enshrined in Ghana’s justice system, the justice system has failed to uphold the principle in practice.
Dr. Agordzo made some shocking revelations about his experience with the justice system.
He stated that during his trial, he was treated as if he had already been proven guilty.He also disclosed that he has vividly described how the prosecution allegedly tried to compromise the bench in his book which is set to be launched on Wednesday, October 30, 2024.
“And sometimes you are being talked down to as if you are already guilty. I mean, our justice system treats you as though you are guilty from the beginning, despite the fact that the principle of innocence until proven guilty is enshrined. I tell you that throughout my trial, I was being treated as guilty even before I was. So no equality before the law. The prosecution could have their way, and then I could not have my way. The prosecution could get permission, but I could not get permission. And these are some of the things I have documented in my book for people to read and appreciate what it means to go through this, our so-called justice system, which I consider to be much of injustice,” he stated.
He continued, “There is a lot of injustice in the justice system. That is what I mean when you read my chapters 20-24. I have titled it “Injustice in the Justice System”. And that’s why when you read that particular chapter, you will really, it will be as though you are going through those difficult moments. And I’ve even given instances where the prosecution tries everything possible to compromise the bench.”
He also raised concerns regarding the public having more trust and confidence in the media particularly the radio and TV stations, more than the police when it comes to issues of safety and security.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Salimatu Nuhu
