The National Democratic Congress (NDC) is confident of reclaiming the Assin North seat in the upcoming By election, irrespective of the high court’s decision on the review motion applied for by lawyers of James Gyakye Quayson on its initial order for a daily trial.
The Criminal Division of the Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Mary Maame Ekue Yanzuh, had directed on June 16 that the trial be conducted daily following an oral motion by the Attorney General.
This decision came after James Quayson’s legal team had requested an adjournment of the case until after June 27, citing his involvement in the by-election scheduled for that day following the Supreme Court’s ruling on May 17. However, their plea was rejected.
In response, James Gyakye Quayson’s lawyers, led by Tsatsu Tsikata, filed a motion for review or variation of the court’s orders issued on June 16, seeking fair treatment for the accused. Despite the legal complexities surrounding the case, Malik Basintale, Deputy Communications Officer of the NDC, firmly asserts that the people of Assin North have already made their decision on whom to vote for.
“These are the most discerning people I have met.They know what they’re about and insist the NDC didn’t compel them to vote for James Gyakye Quayson. Dr Nkrumah was in Jail when he was voted for, so was Nelson Mandela – If they think they can use the court to frustrate him, in order for him not to sell his message, hos record will do the work. If this man is not even in Assin North to campaign in this particular election, the projects, achievements and the goodwill he has in that constituency will naturally and automatically campaign for him” Malik said.
Like Malik, Director of Legal Affairs of the NDC, Abraham Amaliba, believes comments made by the Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame on the matter is irresponsible. Amaliba asserts that “To call somebody irresponsible for partaking in a democratic process is irresponsible. If you are a minister of justice, you must ensure that justice is served to all manner of persons”. He added that such comments should not be coming from an attorney general and minster of Justice.
Deputy Attorney General Alfred Tuah Yeboah, however, supports Godfred Yeboah Dame’s choice of words, asserting their appropriateness. He explains that the Attorney General successfully convinced the court of the necessity for a daily trial and expresses bewilderment at what James Gyakye Quayson’s legal team describes as an attack on the accused person.
Hearing on the variation motion is scheduled to resume today, Wednesday, June 21, 2023, after being adjourned on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, by Justice Mary Maame Ekue Yanzuh following arguments from both parties.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM
