The Osino District Court in the Eastern Region has granted bail to 15 supporters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) who were accused of involvement in an arson attack on the Electoral Commission (EC) office in Asuboi, Ayensuano Constituency.
The incident occurred on December 10, 2024, when a group known as Ayensuano Concerned Youth protested the declaration of Ida Adwoa Asiedu as the MP-elect for the constituency. The protest escalated into violence, with the EC office being set ablaze during the unrest.
The 15 suspects, who were arrested and charged with arson, were each granted bail of GH₵20,000 with one surety. The court, presided over by His Worship Salifu Bugri Ayagiba, scheduled their next court appearance for January 14, 2025.
Despite objections from the prosecution, which raised concerns that the suspects might interfere with investigations, the court upheld the defense counsel’s request for bail. Prosecuting Detective Chief Inspector Kamal Salifu Gumah argued that investigations were still ongoing and that granting bail could hinder the process.
However, the defense counsel assured the court that the suspects were well-known members of the community and would fully cooperate with legal proceedings.
“By God’s grace, we have been able to secure bail for them. They have been granted bail with the condition to report to the Kibi police commander to ensure their availability,” the defense lawyer stated after the ruling.
The suspects face serious charges related to the arson attack, but the defense emphasized that these were merely accusations, and the case would depend on the strength of the evidence gathered by the police.
“If the police can gather sufficient evidence, fine; if not, the case will be dismissed,” the lawyer added.
The court’s decision to grant bail comes amidst heightened tensions in the Ayensuano Constituency following the controversial election result and the subsequent protest. The case will return to court in January for further proceedings.