The Criminal Court 3 of the Accra High Court has adjourned the trial of Assin North MP, James Gyakye Quayson to July 31, 2023 for cross-examination of the Prosecution’s first witness to continue.
This was after lawyers of Gyakye Quayson submitted a letter citing that lawyer Tsatsu Tsikata was indisposed until July 30 and prayed for adjournment till after the legal break in October.
But reacting to the development, Deputy Attorney-General Alfred Tuah Yeboah prayed the court to adjourn to July 31, the final day before the legal break. He explained that it had been over a year since the Prosecution’s first witness mounted the witness box and prayed for the hearing to be expedited, even if the case had to be heard during the legal break.
“This case started in January 2022. Prosecution Witness (PW1) commenced his evidence in chief on 12th July 2022, it’s been one year, 16 days since PW1 mounted the witness box.
“In view of this, I will like to pray that this matter is adjourned to Monday subject to my lady’s convenience to have cross-examination of PW1 completed,” he told the court.
When asked for his comments, the Assin North legislator told the court that he will be unavailable during the legal break since he has been unwell for the past three years.
Alfred Tuah Yeboah however suggested alternatives after pointing out that Justin Teriwajah is the counsel for Gyakye Quayson according to the records.
“If this matter is heard during the legal break the accused person or his lawyers can join online for the hearing proceedings,” he noted.
After listening to their submissions, Justice Mary Ekue Yanzuh ordered that parties appear on Monday, July 31, 2023, for the conclusion of the cross-examination of Richard Takyi-Mensah.
She however had a word of caution for James Gyakye Quayson:
“If on July 31, counsel does not appear, the court will have no option than to have the accused person continue his cross-examination.”
Source: 3news.com