Accra, July 29, GNA – The case in which Stephen Asamoah-Boateng, Former Minister of Information and National Orientation, and seven others are being held over renovations undertaken at the Ministry was on Thursday adjourned to October 7.
This was after Mr Victor Xola Kwashie Senaya, Chief Director of Ministry of Information, third prosecution witness, had been discharged by the Accra Fast Track High Court.
At the sitting, Mr Senaya answered two questions challenging a Tender Committee Meeting, which he was said to have participated.
Prosecution told the court that it was unable to produce a fourth prosecution witness, who returned from a trip outside the country on Wednesday.
Mr Anthony Gyambiby, Chief State Attorney, prayed for an adjournment to produce the next witness during the adjourned date.
Mr Egbert Faibille, counsel for Frank Agyekum, told the court that with the commencement of legal vacation of the courts, lawyers would also be taking their vacation.
Mr Augustine Obuor, counsel for Dominic A. Sampong, agreed with Mr Faibille on the issue.
However, the prosecution disagreed with the defence counsel, saying although the courts would be going on recess, the trial judge would be sitting during the vacation, therefore, the trial should continue.
The court after listening to the various arguments adjourned the matter to Thursday, October 7.
Asamoah-Boateng his wife, Zulieka Jennifer Lorwia and six other public officers have been charged with conspiracy to defraud the State.
Also in court is a non-legal entity firm, Supreme Procurement Agencies Limited.
The accused persons are alleged to have conspired to defraud the State of GH¢86,915.85 in renovation works undertaken at the Ministerial Block of the Ministry during Asamoah-Boateng’s tenure of office.
Other accused persons are Frank Agyekum, Former Deputy Minister of Information and National Orientation, Dominic A. Sampong, Former Acting Chief Director, Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Kwabena Denkyira, Former Director of Finance and Administration of the Ministry, Prosper Arku of the non-legal entity firm, and Yasmine Domua, a businesswoman.
They have all pleaded not guilty before the court presided over by Mr Justice Charles Quist.
The court has admitted them to GH¢10,000 bail each with a surety.
Source: GhanaWeb
