Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Dr. Dominic Akuritinga Ayine, has defended his decision to withdraw charges against former COCOBOD Chief Executive Dr. Stephen Opuni and businessman Seidu Agongo.
The case centered on allegations that the duo had caused financial loss to the state by purchasing substandard Lithovit liquid fertilizer.
However, Dr. Ayine revealed that evidence gathered during the investigation and trial contradicted the prosecution’s claims.
He cited statements from COCOBOD officials, field reports, and testimony from farmers, which indicated that Lithovit fertilizer was highly effective and preferred over other fertilizers.
Dr. Ayine also highlighted concerns about judicial impartiality in the case, criticizing former trial judge Justice Clemence Jackson Honyenuga for expunging crucial exculpatory evidence.
Additionally, he expressed concerns about perceptions of inducement due to the promotion of judges handling politically sensitive cases.
The Attorney-General emphasized that his decision to withdraw the charges was made independently and in the best interest of justice.
He assured the public that he is committed to balancing public interest with the rights of accused persons and ensuring that the judicial process remains fair and credible.
Dr. Ayine’s explanation comes after he withdrew charges against several high-profile individuals, including Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and Governor of Bank of Ghana Dr. Johnson Asiama.
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