By Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the ongoing ambulance procurement trial, claims he would be perceived as dishonest if he testified in the manner allegedly suggested by Attorney-General Godfred Yeboah Dame.
Jakpa’s protest is detailed in an audio recording said to have been secretly made during a conversation allegedly involving Jakpa, the Attorney-General, and a third person purported to be a Supreme Court judge.
Jakpa, Ato Forson, and another individual are on trial for allegedly causing financial loss to the state through the procurement of ambulances.
“That is the problem I’m having. Anytime you bring up this issue with Yoni Kulendi, when I went to Yoni Kulendi’s place, anytime you bring this issue, that is the problem I’m having. Because me, for example, I am in this case because I’m innocent and I’m going through an ordeal.”
“So I’m looking at another person, also going through the ordeal and through me because I know the truth and I decide not to say it because I want to help the AG make his case.”
In the recording, Jakpa’s voice is heard stating that he cannot in good conscience contribute to the imprisonment of an innocent individual.
This statement follows an alleged suggestion by the Attorney-General in the recorded conversation, purportedly urging the accused to assist him in obtaining a conviction against the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson.
Since Jakpa made the allegation in open court, it has ignited controversy and prompted concerns regarding the integrity of the judicial proceedings.
Jakpa’s statement insinuated that the Attorney General purportedly sought to coerce him into providing false testimony to bolster the prosecution’s case against Dr. Ato Forson, who is the primary defendant in the trial.
Dr. Forson, a former Deputy Finance Minister and the current Minority Leader, stands accused of offenses connected to the acquisition of defective ambulances for Ghana, allegedly resulting in financial detriment to the state.
The purported covert recording, disclosed on Tuesday, May 28 by the opposition National Democratic Congress, has heightened examination of the Attorney General’s purported illicit behavior in the matter.
Numerous voices have advocated for an impartial inquiry to ascertain the legitimacy of the recording and the truthfulness of Jakpa’s assertions.
Legal professionals and civil society groups have voiced apprehension regarding the possible ramifications for the rule of law and judicial fairness in Ghana, underscoring the importance of openness and answerability within the legal framework.
In reply to the accusations, the Attorney-General has vehemently refuted any misconduct.
Godfred Yeboah Dame has stated unequivocally that Mr. Jakpa’s allegations are baseless and that he never attempted to manipulate Mr. Jakpa’s testimony.
The Attorney General asserts that his actions have consistently adhered to legal standards, and he remains dedicated to guaranteeing a just trial for all parties concerned.
