The Accra High Court has postponed its decision on the submission of no case in the trial of James Gyakye Quayson, Member of Parliament for Assin North. The ruling, originally expected on March 3, has been rescheduled for March 27, following a request for additional time by the prosecution.
The court is set to determine whether the prosecution has presented sufficient evidence to warrant the MP opening his defence. Mr. Quayson is facing multiple charges, including deceit of a public officer, forgery of a passport or travel certificate, knowingly making a false statutory declaration, perjury, and false declaration for office. He has maintained his innocence and remains on bail.
Justice Mary Ekue Yanzuh had earlier instructed both the prosecution and defence to file their written submissions simultaneously to facilitate her ruling. However, during Monday’s hearing, the Attorney-General’s office informed the court that they had not completed their submissions and requested an extension.
Lead counsel for Mr. Quayson, Tsatsu Tsikata, did not oppose the prosecution’s request. “We have no objection to the prosecution’s plea for more time. However, we respectfully request that in these circumstances, where they now have sufficient time, they should comprehensively address the matters raised,” he stated.
Mr. Tsikata also suggested that the court make a slight adjustment to its earlier directive on simultaneous filings to ensure justice is served.
Justice Yanzuh granted the prosecution’s request and ordered them to submit their written arguments by Tuesday, March 4. The court will now deliver its ruling on March 27.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
