Richard Jakpa, the third accused in the high-profile ambulance procurement trial, has hailed the Court of Appeal’s recent ruling as a significant victory for democracy and the rule of law in Ghana. His comments come in the wake of the Court’s decision to acquit and discharge him and Minority Leader Cassiel Ato Forson.
In an interview with JoyNews’ Latif Iddrisu, Mr. Jakpa expressed his relief and excitement, viewing the ruling as a testament to the integrity of Ghana’s judicial system. “This ruling is a victory for all democracy-loving Ghanaians and those who hold sovereignty to the rule of law. It is a victory for all Ghanaians, not for me alone,” Mr. Jakpa said. He added that the decision also honours those who advocate for integrity in governance and legal proceedings.
The Court of Appeal’s 2:1 majority decision overturns a prior High Court order requiring Dr. Forson and Mr. Jakpa to open their defense. The two were accused of causing a financial loss of €2.37 million to the state in a controversial deal to purchase 200 ambulances between 2014 and 2016. The Court’s ruling effectively nullifies the need for the case to proceed further.
Jakpa, a representative for Big Sea, expressed his appreciation for the Court of Appeal’s fair evaluation of the evidence. “I got my justice from the Appeal Court, where there are men of integrity who looked at the evidence as it is, and then they granted me my freedom,” he stated.
When asked about his future plans, Mr. Jakpa made it clear that he has no intention of leaving the country. “I am going nowhere. If I am travelling, it is purely to engage my international business partners and get things back on track,” he noted, reflecting on the adverse impact the prolonged legal process has had on his business activities.
Despite the celebratory mood among the acquitted, the Attorney General, Godfred Yeboah Dame, has expressed strong criticism of the ruling. He described it as “unfair” and detrimental to the rule of law, arguing that it contradicts established legal precedents concerning financial loss cases. The Attorney General has announced plans to appeal the case to the Supreme Court.
Mr. Jakpa, however, remains resolute in the face of potential further legal challenges. “I am prepared for an appeal should Dame decide to go to the Supreme Court,” he asserted, demonstrating his readiness to confront any additional legal hurdles.
The ongoing debate over the case underscores the complex interplay between legal judgements and political perceptions, with the Court of Appeal’s ruling marking a pivotal moment in Ghana’s legal landscape.