The chief of Banka, a farming community in the Asante Akyem District of the Ashanti Region, has been sentenced to three months in jail and fined for embezzling $150,000 of community funds. Osabarima Twiampomah III, aged 65, was convicted by the Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Comfort K. Tasiame, on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, following a comprehensive investigation into financial misconduct.
The investigation revealed that the chief had misappropriated $150,000 provided by Gulf Coast Resources Company Ltd., a gold mining company, as part of their corporate social responsibility obligations. The funds were intended to support a ten-year development plan for the community.
Osabarima Twiampomah III was sentenced to three months in prison and fined 2,000 penalty units, equivalent to GH¢24,000. Justice Tasiame stated that if the convict fails to pay the fine, his prison term will be extended to five years.
Reports indicated that the chief had seized the funds and denied his community the necessary development. Initially, he denied receiving the $150,000 cheque but later confessed to Chief Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori Panin of Akyem Abuakwa in November 2021.
Charged with stealing, contrary to Section 124 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960, Act 29, Osabarima Twiampomah III pleaded not guilty. However, the prosecution, led by State Attorney Watkins Adamah, presented three witnesses who testified against him.
After the prosecution closed its case on December 19, 2023, the accused requested to submit no case to answer, which the court granted. On February 20, 2024, the court ruled that the prosecution had provided prima facie evidence, necessitating the accused to mount a defense.
The trial concluded on May 7, 2024, with the accused testifying in his defense and Prof. Kwame Gyan Esq. serving as his sole witness. Despite their efforts, the evidence led to the chief’s conviction and subsequent sentencing.
This case marks a significant step towards accountability and transparency in local governance, underscoring the importance of integrity in leadership positions.
